Ocean Grove Voice - 30th October 2026

INSIDE THIS EDITION…

HEADSTONE COMMEMORATION, PAGE 2

30 OCTOBER - 12 NOVEMBER, 2026

BELLARINE’S NUMBER ONE NEWSPAPER

FREE FORTNIGHTLY

(Ivan Kemp)

Twilight food fair fun

Surfside Primary School’s Fresh Food Fair is back for another year of good tucker, music, carnival rides and family fun. Students Mitch, Jess, Lora and Hayley are pictured with the Ocean Grove school’s resident chooks who call the award-winning school garden home. The twilight fair features afternoon tea, cakes, stalls, homemade cookies, sausage rolls, soups, potato and kale pastries, curries, and chili con carne. Entertainment will be on show including the school band and Surfside’s Got Talent. Carnival rides, a petting zoo, sideshow games, face painting and more are also on the agenda. The fair is on Friday 6 November.  For the full story, see page 3.

Bowls excitement Ocean Grove’s reputation as the bowls capital of the region is set to continue with five days of elite competition heading to the club from 9 to 13 November. The 12-team Bowls Premier League (BPL) is expected to draw more than 6000 spectators to Ocean Grove Bowling Club (OGBC) and is described as the bowls equivalent to cricket’s T20 format. Local team the Geelong Jets are the reigning champions and will be coached by OGBC’s Matt Flapper, who said the excitement and anticipation surrounding the BPL was continuing to build. “Heading into a home BPL as defending champions, with the same team that claimed the title in Moama earlier this

year, makes this event incredibly special,” he said. “We have a world-class team that has been together since our journey began in 2024. That continuity, connection and belief in one another has been a huge part of our success. “One of the most exciting aspects of bringing the BPL to Ocean Grove is the opportunity for our supporters to be part of the action. We’ve built a fantastic following, and now our fans have the chance to embrace the pink and black and experience the atmosphere of a home BPL.” The tournament will be broadcast by Fox Sports, Kayo and Sky Sport NZ.

The competition features teams from Geelong, Adelaide, Gold Coast, Tweed Heads, Moama, Melbourne, Sydney, Moreton Bay, Perth and Tasmania. OGBC chief executive Nathan O’Neill said the benefits would extend well beyond the venue. “We’re preparing for visitation to be at its peak across the five days, with people travelling from around the country to experience the BPL and everything our region has to offer,” he said. “The Bellarine and Greater Geelong stand to benefit from the influx, with visitors staying locally, dining out and exploring the region. “An event of this scale in early November

helps bring forward the summer momentum, extending the visitor season and generating additional trade for local businesses ahead of the traditional holiday peak. “It’s a fantastic opportunity to showcase our club and our region to a national audience.” The BPL is a fast-paced version of bowls with a maximum of 30 seconds allowed between bowls, power plays for double points, player substitutions, five-end sets and each match taking an hour to complete. See bowls.com.au/events-page/ national-events/bowls-premier-league for more information.

L O C A L LY OW N E D A N D O P E R AT E D S I N C E 1 9 8 8

DRYSDALE CARPET COURT 63 Murradoc Road, Drysdale, VIC 3222 P 5253 1855 E drysdale@carpetcourt.com.au MON - FRI 9AM - 5PM SAT 9AM - 12PM WE STOCK BONA FLOOR CLEANING PRODUCTS

*You must be a Qantas Frequent Flyer member to earn Qantas Points. Members will earn 1 Qantas Point per dollar spent on retail flooring products, window furnishings, tiles and services purchased from Drysdale Carpet Court or online. Full terms and conditions available at www.carpetcourt.com.au/qantas-frequent-flyer 12914356-JD44-26

NEWS

OCEANGROVEVOICE.COM.AU

Fears for climate plan By Matt Hewson The Queenscliff and Point Lonsdale community has activated to retain their council’s celebrated ten-year Climate Emergency Response Plan (CERP). Local individuals and organisations have organised a public meeting at 6pm on Saturday 14 November at the Point Lonsdale Primary School to launch a community survey, kickstart local advocacy and hear from climate experts. Adopted in 2021 and intended to run until 2031, the CERP is a comprehensive, 80-page strategy developed by the Borough of Queenscliffe through extensive collaboration with environmental and climate groups, Traditional Owners and community

members. Community member and local advocate Robert Patterson said community members participating in the CERP’s planned fiveyear review – conducted by external consultant firm Nation Partners – had sounded the alarm on the apparent direction the review was taking. “One quote that came from a group that was at these roundtables was ‘how can a document be reviewed when it isn’t tabled for consideration?’” Mr Patterson said. “The CERP wasn’t even tabled. They were skirting around it and wanting to do something entirely different. That’s the uproar.” The Borough’s website is also explicit the outcome of the review is not to guide the

continuation of the CERP, but instead to “shape the Borough’s next Climate Strategy”, which Mr Patterson said would clearly replace rather than complement the existing plan. Climatologist and Geelong Sustainability chair Neil Plummer, who will speak at the community meeting, said the discontinuation of the CERP would be “a massive loss”. “I followed the CERP’s development back in 2019 and 2020, and my view is it’s a very well-considered and comprehensive plan to respond to climate change,” he said. “It has achieved positive results and outcomes for the council and for the wider community, but since 2021, climate impacts and risks have only increased. “The evidence is right there before us…so

Geelong Sustainability’s Neil Plummer. (Supplied)

it would be a real backwards step to lose all that great work that was done. “It takes a hell of a lot of work, time and investment to develop something like this, but it’s very, very easily lost. And there is no doubt that this work will be required again, so it’s much more cost-efficient to keep this plan going.” Visit letition.org/cerpmeeting for more information.

Ensuring veterans are remembered By Matt Hewson Soldiers lying in unmarked graves at Point Lonsdale cemetery will be honoured with a special ceremony this November The Headstone Project Victoria (HPV), a locally-based organisation spearheading efforts to identify veterans currently in unmarked graves and provide headstones for them, will hold the commemoration ceremony at 11am on Sunday 8 November at Queenscliff Cemetery, Point Lonsdale. Ocean Grove historian Dr Bob Marmion, secretary and co-founder of HPV, said some of the 20 veterans’ graves dated back to the 1870s. “Some of them are connected with Port Queenscliff over the years, others are World War I veterans,” he said. “For various reasons they’ve been buried in unmarked graves, usually because they were estranged from their family or the family couldn’t afford a headstone. We’ve identified 20 that will be commemorated on Sunday week.” Dr Marmion said HPV was a “huge statewide project”, with Point Lonsdale only the first of a number of major commemorations planned over the next year. “We’re mostly working our way across the Bellarine and into Geelong, so it’ll be continual over the next two or three years,” he said. “We’ve got people all over Victoria doing this. We’ve got a Melbourne group, a group in Stawell, Gippsland, Central Victoria… there must be literally thousands of (unmarked graves) spread across the country.” Dr Marmion encouraged members of the

Coast Watch Ocean Grove president Duncan Pascoe and Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant welcome the state government’s election commitments. (Supplied)

Education and emergency election pledge

Headstone Project Victoria’s Bob Marmion and Tamara Doheney pay their respects at a restored headstone. (Ivan Kemp)

public to attend the ceremony. ”It will run along military commemoration lines, so it’ll be similar to a Remembrance Day ceremony,” he said. “We’ve got brigadiers and colonels, state

and federal politicians all coming, and of course relatives and past researchers. “We’re expecting well over 100 people and it’s open to the public to be involved as well.”

Council approves place naming policy after lengthy delay By Matt Hewson Geelong council has finally approved its long-delayed place naming policy. The council voted to adopt the new policy by a margin of seven to four, with councillors Chris Burson, Andrew Katos, Eddy Kontelj and Ron Nelson voting in opposition. The policy seeks to address the historical imbalance of place names around the region, prioritising women, First Nations people and underrepresented cultural groups in the naming of places for a period of two years.

Cr Emma Sinclair pointed out that a recent audit by the City found only three per cent of places in Greater Geelong were named after women. “To suggest that three per cent is a figure that accurately reflects the proportion of women in merit within Geelong speaks volumes about the broader attitudes towards women,” she said. “These same attitudes – the suggestion that women are inherently less than, that their achievements are less worthy of recognition than those of their male counterparts – contribute to a broader culture of gender inequality in which violence

2 OCEAN GROVE VOICE Friday, 30 October, 2026

against women persists and is pervasive. “But the good news is, council can play a…pivotal role in shaping these attitudes.” The details of the policy have been fiercely contested by Crs Katos and Kontelj since the introduction of a draft to the council and its exhibition through March and April this year, although the public has been broadly supportive throughout. The councillors’ opposition has centred on what they claimed was an unfair exclusion of Anglo-Saxon men and veterans, with Cr Kontelj saying the policy was “attempting to solve a problem I personally don’t believe actually exists”.

Better access to education in Lara and more support for emergency services in the Bellarine are among the state government’s commitments if Labor is re-elected. A re-elected Carroll Labor Government has promised to deliver a new primary school in Lara West and invest $1.57 million to upgrade Lara Lake Primary School. Member for Lara Ella George said it was important to provide families with modern and fit-for-purpose facilities across the region. “I’ve spoken to hundreds of families in Lara, and they are all telling me the same thing; it’s time for another primary school in Lara,” she said. “As our community in Lara has grown, so has Lara Lake Primary, and this funding delivers a much-needed upgrade to the school oval and outdoor area.” The state government has also committed to delivering a new fire station for Leopold CFA and investing $600,000 for a new marine search and rescue boat for Coast Watch Ocean Grove. Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant said she will always back the region’s emergency service volunteers. “I’m proud to announce the important upgrade for the Leopold CFA station, and as a vital part of our community safety and emergency response, they deserve a station that is fit for purpose,” she said. “We’re also proud to commit a new marine search and rescue vessel for Coast Watch Ocean Grove to help the volunteers do their important work, particularly when the Barwon River mouth can be unpredictable and treacherous.”

OCEANGROVEVOICE.COM.AU

NEWS

Ramsar protection More important wetlands across the Bellarine will receive international Ramsar recognition and stronger environmental protections. The Ramsar list will expand to the Moolap Wetlands, parts of the Edwards Point Swan Bay Wildlife Reserve and Coastal Reserve, Lake Connewarre Complex Conservation Reserve, and Point Cook Cheetham Coastal Park and Marine Sanctuary. Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant said the wetlands contained valuable saltmarsh and seagrass habitats that provide food, shelter and resting places for migratory shorebirds. “After years of hard work, our community should feel so proud to have these precious wetlands protected for generations to come,” she said. “These pristine wetlands are the lifeblood for so much of our native plants and animals, and these new protections will

help protect them for everyone to safely and sustainably enjoy.” Member for Corangamite Libby Coker said she thanked the community for its advocacy in protecting important areas. “My community cares deeply for the local environment and protecting precious assets including Lake Connewarre, Swan Bay and the Moolap Wetlands,” she said. “This extension will see important local habitat recognised around the world...and this couldn’t have happened without the strong support of the local community.” Minister for Environment and Water Murray Watt said the state and federal governments were working together to protect the state’s internationally significant wetlands. “(This) will safeguard our unique wildlife and biodiversity for future generations,” he said. “Collectively, Australia’s Ramsar-listed wetlands cover more than 8.3 million

hectares—an area larger than Tasmania— and play a vital role in supporting biodiversity, improving water quality, storing carbon and providing important habitat for native species.” Minister for Water Michaela Settle said the expansion increased the size of the existing Ramsar-listed wetland to 24,110 hectares statewide. “This outcome is a testament to the dedication of local communities that have championed the recognition of these wetlands for their outstanding environmental significance,” she said. “Expanding Victoria’s Ramsar wetlands will strengthen the conservation of threatened species, migratory shorebirds and these internationally significant habitats for future generations.” Sites must contain representative, rare or unique wetland types, or be internationally important for conserving biological diversity, to be placed on the Ramsar list.

Mark Lang launched his new album Wild Swan at the Melbourne Recital Centre last weekend. (Izzie Austin)

Album is a record of time and place By Matt Hewson

Fresh Food Fair will be heaps of fun Surfside Primary School’s Fresh Food Fair is back for another year of good tucker, music, carnival rides and family fun. The Ocean Grove school will again be holding its annual major fundraiser with a twilight event and is inviting families, friends and the wider community to enjoy a festive afternoon and evening. Visitors can enjoy a delightful afternoon tea featuring the traditional cake stall, the whimsical Mad Hatter’s Tea Party and an irresistible selection of sweet treats, including cupcakes, milkshakes, and plenty of chocolates and lollies. Food lovers will be spoilt for choice, with students and dedicated volunteers preparing a mouth-watering menu of homemade cookies, sausage rolls, soups, potato and kale pastries, curries, and chili con carne. Every class will also contribute to the festivities by running its own market stall, showcasing the creativity, skills and enthusiasm of Surfside students with the school’s own award-winning Kitchen and Garden program to provide some of the ingredients. There will be plenty of entertainment throughout the afternoon and evening, including performances by the talented Surfside Primary School band, live music and the ever-popular Surfside’s Got Talent showcase. Families can also look forward to carnival rides, a petting zoo, sideshow games, coloured hair spray and extensions, lucky dips, face painting, gift stalls, potted plants and the much-anticipated dunk bucket challenge. Funds raised at the fair directly support the Kitchen and Garden program, provid-

Local songwriter Mark Lang has a long history of creating quality music. Frontman for indie rock outfit Skipping Girl Vinegar, Lang was the primary songwriter behind the band’s three critically acclaimed albums Sift the Noise (2008), Keep Calm, Carry the Monkey (2011) and The Great Wave (2015) After the band wound down Lang went solo, touring extensively through North America and Europe, performing at major international festivals and supporting legendary Canadian artist Ron Sexsmith for his Australian tour. But last weekend Lang travelled from the Bellarine to the Melbourne Recital Centre to launch what he calls the “most meaningful work” he has ever made. That work is debut solo album Wild Swan, a 10-track offering that has been over three years in the making. Dedicated to Lang’s son, Wild Swan evokes the natural music of the wetlands to document both a moment in time and Lang’s lifelong journey toward that moment. “I’ve always taken the slower path with art making anyway, but it’s a kind of reaction against the way in which the world’s moving…churning things out with little thought and no soul attached,” he said. “I wanted everything to feel immersive, to give people a chance to slow down and enter the sonic world we tried to create… where you can be still, connected to nature and the places around you.” Lang and long-term friend, producer and collaborator Nick Huggins took to the stage last Saturday night to release Wild Swan into the world.

Orin and Isla adding some colour to the chook shed ahead of Surfside Primary School’s Fresh Food Fair. (Ivan Kemp)

ing students with valuable opportunities to develop practical skills, explore fresh produce and build a lifelong appreciation for food, healthy eating and sustainability.

The Fresh Food Fair (facebook.com/ SurfsideFreshFoodFair) is on Friday 6 November at Surfside Primary School from 3.15pm to 7.30pm.

20% OFF

Barwon Heads Road upgrade ahead of schedule says government Stage 2a of the Barwon Heads Road project is due to open by the middle of next year according to the state government. The government says the section between Reserve Road in Charlemont and Lake Road in Armstrong Creek is six months ahead of schedule. Despite often lengthy traffic delays on the busy road, Stage 2a will deliver extra lanes between Reserve Road and Lake Road; shared walking and cycling paths; upgraded intersections at Precinct Road/ Parkfield Boulevard, Central Boulevard/ Harkness Boulevard and Warralily Boulevard; new traffic lights at Newport

Drive and Boundary Road; and pedestrian crossings south of Harriott Road and north of the Armstrong Green retirement village. Precinct Road reopened to traffic on 14 October and the Boundary Road traffic lights will be operational by Christmas. “Barwon Heads Road is the way in and out for so many locals along the Bellarine – so these upgrades will make the daily trip to work, school and the shops safer and smoother,” Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant said. Major work on Stage 2b, between Lake

Road and Lower Duneed Road roundabout in Connewarre, starts in November. Stage 2b will deliver an extra lane in both directions; an upgraded Buchanan Avenue roundabout with two lanes in each direction; a new pedestrian crossing just north of the intersection; and an extended shared path to connect with the existing network at Holst Street. More than 44,000 vehicles per day are expected to use the road by 2031.

DRY CLEANING Up to the value of $10

OCEAN GROVE ONLY! • Voucher must be present upon drop-off of dry cleaning • One voucher per order * Conditions apply

THE DRY CLEANING EXPERTS 1/85 The Parade, Ocean Grove Ph: 5256 2122 12605887-SN21-23

Friday, 30 October, 2026 OCEAN GROVE VOICE 3

NEWS

OCEANGROVEVOICE.COM.AU

GoodSAM helps save lives By Matt Hewson When 52-year-old Steven Bowen suffered a cardiac arrest at his home in May this year his life hinged on the critical minutes between collapsing and receiving life-saving care. Fortunately, nursing student Mackenzie Sinclair, who lived just 200 metres down the street, had signed up for GoodSAM, a free smartphone app that allows Triple Zero call takers to connect volunteers with nearby patients in cardiac arrest. “I had just got home from a nursing placement, so I quickly put my shoes on and went to help, still wearing my scrubs,” Ms Sinclair said. “Steven was very, very unwell when I arrived. I didn’t know how things were going to go.” Ms Sinclair took over CPR from Steven’s partner Jo until paramedics arrived and continued to assist once they were on the scene. Ambulance Victoria (AV) paramedic Shannon Cefai, one of the first responders on that day, said Mr Bowen was alive thanks to Ms Sinclair’s actions. “What we know is that each minute that goes by without CPR is an additional 10 per cent reduction in your chance of survival,” he said. “Mackenzie being alerted via the GoodSAM app only 200 metres away meant that Steven was getting CPR very quickly before we arrived. “There were a lot of incredible things that happened between the scene and

Paramedic Shannon Cefai, Steven Bowen and GoodSAM responder Mackenzie Sinclair. (Ivan Kemp) 585888 04

into the hospital, including being defibrillated 13 times. But it might not have been possible without Mackenzie turning up to do CPR.” Mr Bowen, who remembers nothing of the incident, met Ms Sinclair and Mr Cefai for the first time this week as part of

AV’s Shocktober campaign. He said he was glad Ms Sinclair had been nearby and responded to his emergency. “Catching up with them today, just saying thank you is not enough,” he said. “It’s unbelievable, and 99 per cent of

Portarlington gets Greek for festival eryone can come and have a fabulous time while celebrating a big Greek party. “The festival is about uniting people because ignorance breeds prejudice, and the less ignorant people are about other cultures, the more tolerant and accepting they are. “We also want to inspire the younger generation to be first responders, so they’ll (Bellarine SES, Ambulance Victoria, and police) be there for education purposes, not just emergency purposes.” The festival will feature music from Agapi & Friends from 11am at Parks Hall, Anagennisi from 10am on the main stage, and Spasta Band from 11am just outside the alcohol area. The Portarlington Greek Festival will be held from 10am to 5pm at WG Little Reserve, 65-87 Newcomb Street, with entry by donation.

By Jena Carr Portarlington will showcase its Greek flair during a day full of culture, flavour and entertainment. Portarlington Greek Festival will return to the region for its second year during this Melbourne Cup Weekend on Sunday 1 November. Founder and managing director Alexandra Dascarellos said the festival was back for a “bigger and better” year with lots of amazing Greek food, performances and stalls. “The festival was put together last year, and it was a very successful festival, and up to 10,000 people came along, leading us to sell out of Greek food,” she said. “My mum and dad are Greek, and they came to Australia in 1953, so...I hope ev-

Alexandra Dascarellos will bring Portarlington Greek Festival back to the region for its second year. (Ivan Kemp) 586817 07

No Coles supermarket on the Bellarine says Geelong council Geelong council has submitted a proposed planning amendment to signal its opposition to a proposed Coles supermarket on the Bellarine and forestall its development. The City of Greater Geelong submitted amendment C495ggee to Victorian Minister for Planning Sonya Kilkenny to rezone 2341-2349 Bellarine Highway, Point Lonsdale from Commercial 2 Zone and part Farming Zone to Special Use Zone 19. Coles officially purchased the land in March 2024, submitting a pre-application enquiry to the state government later that year. The proposed supermarket has remained stalled in the pre-application stage, with public sentiment firmly against

the possible development. The rezoning would restrict use of the land strictly for tourism purposes, such as low-scale tourism accommodation, resolving what a council statement called “a long-standing inconsistency between the site’s zoning and the strategic planning direction established for the site in the Point Lonsdale Structure Plan 2009”. Pending the minister’s approval, a planning scheme amendment process would then begin, likely with a public exhibition of the amendment. Mayor Stretch Kontelj said this step was a win for the local community. “Residents in Point Lonsdale, Queenscliff and surrounding areas have told us loud and clear that they want 2341-2349

4 OCEAN GROVE VOICE Friday, 30 October, 2026

Bellarine Highway to be developed in line with the long-term vision for low-scale tourism,” he said. “Submitting the amendment to Minister Kilkenny is an important step to deliver on the structure plan and allow the community the chance to have their say through a formal process.” Borough of Queenscliffe Mayor Donnie Grigau said the process would provide further opportunities for community feedback. “This is an important step towards planning controls that support the longterm vision for the site, while providing transparency and meaningful opportunities for community input as the amendment progresses,” he said.

people wouldn’t know that the GoodSAM program exists. I didn’t know there were people 200 metres away that could help save your life…I’m glad they’re there.” Visit ambulance.vic.gov.au/shocktober to learn more about GoodSAM and Shocktober.

Denis brings the Christmas spirit One of Geelong’s most iconic entertainers will mark three decades of bringing Christmas joy to families across the region this November. Beloved entertainer Denis Walter will host his 30th Carols by the Bay event at Geelong waterfront on Saturday 21 November. Featuring a talented musical lineup of local and Australian performers, as well as the popular Flick the Switch competition and the lighting of the Floating Christmas Tree, the free event will begin at 6.30pm at Steampacket Gardens. Mr Walter said seeing families return year after year to the event was “incredibly special”. “When I first had the idea for Carols by the Bay, I wanted to create something special for my community at our beautiful waterfront. We’ve made so many wonderful memories together over 30 years,” he said. “Through sunshine, rain, different venues and countless Christmases, the one constant has been the fantastic support of the Geelong community. “I’m so grateful to everyone who has helped make Carols by the Bay what it is today, and I can’t wait to celebrate this milestone with Geelong and kick off another magical Christmas.” Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj paid tribute to Mr Walter’s passion and dedication to the event. “Thirty years of Denis Walter Carols by the Bay is an extraordinary achievement, and we owe Denis a huge thank you,” he said. “Christmas is about connection, generosity, kindness and making time for the people around us. Events like this give families, friends and neighbours the chance to come together and share in the joy of the season.” Visit geelongcity.vic.gov.au/christmas to enter the Flick the Switch competition.

OCEANGROVEVOICE.COM.AU

SECTION

Thinking about retirement living? Talk to an Ocean Grove local.

Janine Wilde Sales Advisor Few people know Deborah Cheetham Village as well as Janine. With years of experience helping residents transition to village living and a strong connection to the local community, she can provide trusted advice every step of the way.

Villas available from $795,000. Located moments from Ocean Grove’s beaches, cafés, shops and local amenities, Deborah Cheetham Village offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle in an established, welcoming community.

Call us on 1800 314 425 to book an appointment with Janine. 1 Vision Court, Ocean Grove

ryman.com.au

Our modern villas are designed for low-maintenance living without compromising on quality, featuring light-filled interiors and seamless indoor-outdoor living.

12912939-CV44-26

Friday, 30 October, 2026 OCEAN GROVE VOICE 5

NEWS

OCEANGROVEVOICE.COM.AU

Jan’s story hopes to inspire A local woman has shared her story of three decades of “painful slavery” to poker machines as part of Gambling Harm Awareness Week (24 to 31 October). With gambling losses across the region continuing to climb – punters lost more than $152 million in the City of Greater Geelong and Borough of Queenscliffe in 2025-26, this highest amount ever recorded locally – recovering gambler Jan hopes her story can help others believe recovery is possible. “Trusting those horrible machines... they promise so much and give very little or nothing,” she said.

After 34 years of feeling trapped, Jan reached out to Meli’s Gambler’s Help service, finding the support she needed to regain control of her life. “I was lucky enough to be supported by a counsellor who had great respect and enormous empathy,” she said. With Meli’s support Jan rebuilt hope, reconnected with herself and began focusing on the things that matter most. “Now I can be myself again.” Meli’s Therapeutic Services manager Betti Chapelle said a recent increase in demand for the organisation’s services reflected both rising awareness of the sup-

port available and the cost of living crisis. “We’re seeing more people reaching out for help, not only gamblers themselves, but also partners, friends and family members who are being affected,” she said. “Common signs of gambling harm include stress, irritability, difficulty sleeping, financial strain and social withdrawal. The impacts often extend beyond the individual and can affect families, relationships and broader support networks. “You don’t have to wait until things get bad. Whether you’re worried about your own gambling or someone else’s, Meli’s Gambler’s Help team is here to listen and

support you without judgement.” Jan’s message to others experiencing similar challenges is simple. “It can be done...even if it is after a very long time. Better late than never,” she said. Jan hopes her experience will encourage others to seek support and remind them that positive change is possible, regardless of how long gambling has been part of their lives. “Trust Meli...believe me, it can be done.” Contact Meli on (03) 5226 8900 or visit www.meli.org.au for free and confidential gambling support.

Borough of Queenscliffe mayor Donnie Grigau, Member of Bellarine Alison Marchant, and Geelong Regional Libraries Corporation chief executive David Semmens. (Supplied)

24/7 Library access Ready for the Strawberry Fair: Wallington PS students Carter (aka Strawberry), Ruby, Maggie, Anna and Piper. (Ivan Kemp) 587040 03

Strawberry time for Wallington Primary programs, facilities and student opportunities. Principal Cameron Edwards said the fair was the school’s biggest event of the year. “Parents choose to come to Wallington because they want to be part of the community, and this is our biggest opportunity for that,” he said. “I think it’s what we’re known for…there’s something for everyone. Obviously for the kids there are plenty of game, activities, rides and food to get involved in. “But there’s also plenty of things for the older generations to get involved in. It’s a big family atmosphere.” Mr Edwards acknowledged the volunteers

By Matt Hewson The Bellarine’s favourite celebration of community spirit, creativity and strawberries is back this November. Wallington Primary School’s Strawberry Fair will feature strawberry-themed delights in the Strawberry Hall, local market stalls and food trucks, rides and entertainment, live music and performance showcases and a silent auction. For more than 40 years the fair has brought together the local community for a day of fun and food, but the event also serves as the school’s major fundraiser to support its school

from the school community who gave up their time and energy every year to make the fair happen. “There’s a small, humble group of very dedicated, passionate parents who put on the whole thing, and a lot of that work goes unnoticed by a lot of people,” he said. “They run this alongside the school and teachers, and it’s all voluntary, but the fair’s a real point of pride for our school. The more people can get down and support it, the better.” The fair will be held at Wallington Primary School on Saturday 15 November from 10am to 3pm.

Cracking down on illegal dumping with offenders put on notice Waste dumping offenders are being put on notice across Greater Geelong as the state government cracks down on illegal dumping. Greater Geelong will partner with the Illegal Waste Dumping Taskforce to combat illegal dumping at sites where councils are seeing increasing unlawful behaviour. Minister for Environment Jaclyn Symes said the taskforce will be using drones and long-range cameras to find illegally dumped rubbish and track down those responsible. “We’ve got eyes in the sky and boots on

the ground to track down offenders and hold them accountable,” she said. “These new cameras and drones mean it’s getting harder for illegal dumpers to hide and easier for us to catch them. “We’re teaming up with local councils to stamp out illegal dumping and keep rubbish out of our parks, streets and bushland.” EPA executive director of operations Rachel Gualano said councils are being encouraged to help tackle illegal dumping. “Illegal dumping is a complex issue globally and contrary to what some may think,

6 OCEAN GROVE VOICE Friday, 30 October, 2026

there’s no one-size-fits-all fix,” she said. “Through the taskforce, EPA is supporting councils and other public land managers to implement solutions tailored to the dumping challenges they face on their land.” The Illegal Waste Dumping Taskforce is a partnership between the state’s environmental agencies led by EPA Victoria, with the Conservation Regulator, Parks Victoria, and DEECA. People who spot illegal dumping can report it to EPA Victoria on 1300 372 842 or through the EPA website.

Queenscliff Library is getting a new locker system, allowing community members to access books, resources and free entertainment whenever they choose. Busy families and workers will soon be able to reserve items online and collect or drop off loans at a convenient time through the new 18-locker system. Borough of Queenscliffe mayor Donnie Grigau said libraries provided free fun for the whole family and that flexible access for the whole community was important. “We very much welcome this news and the library locker will be a valuable addition to Queenscliff Library,” he said. “It will provide a simple and convenient way for members to access reserved materials beyond the library’s staffed opening hours.” Geelong Regional Library Corporation Board representative for Borough of Queenscliffe Isabelle Tolhurst said council knew how much the community loved the library. “This grant announcement and the library locker will provide more access and flexibility to engage with the service they love,” she said. Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant said the state government has invested $28,660 in the locker project through the Living Libraries Infrastructure Program. “Libraries are free, local and open to everyone, and now Queenscliff locals can borrow on their own schedule,” she said. The system will provide residents with a free Geelong Regional Libraries membership the chance to reserve items and have them delivered to a locker for convenient collection. Borough of Queenscliffe said that it will share further updates about the project as it progresses.

OCEANGROVEVOICE.COM.AU

NEWS

Dove fashion show delight The Dove Designer Runway and High Tea event was a long time in the making, but went ahead to a sold-out crowd on Saturday 24 October. The Ocean Grove opportunity shop staged the fashion show with a collection of donated designer clothing that began in February. Labels were generously donated by the community, and sourced through family and friends. The special event was a fundraiser for The Dove and proceeds will help ensure the space remains welcoming, bright, and comfortable for its volunteers, and a warm, dignified place for its customers. Each year, the revenue raised by The Dove is distributed through its bi-annual Dove Community Grant program, supporting many local charities and community organisations. “Since opening in 2011 we have donated approximately $1.1 million to charity groups, an achievement we are deeply proud of,” Ocean Grove Uniting Church’s church and outreach administrator Silvana Kerin said. “Our celebration of fashion teamed with a delicious high tea was a resounding success. We had models, makeup artists, hairdressers, photographers, bakers, waiters, singers, and the list goes on. “It was not just beautiful clothes on beautiful ladies, it was also an afternoon of community, companionship, spirituality and a celebration of all the volunteers who came together to make it happen.” More than 100 outfits were modelled, all of them available for sale after the

show. “We were fortunate to also have a secretly planned performance by Holly Lee Jones and brother Harrison to truly elevate our afternoon tea,” Ms Kerin said.

“Thank you to everyone who attended and supported this event and helped us raise around $3600.” The Dove is at 107-109 The Parade, Ocean Grove. Follow them on Facebook.

Barwon Coast Update Collendina • Ocean Grove • Barwon Heads • 13th Beach • Black Rock • Breamlea

Final Foreshore Master Plan released

2025-26 Annual Report released

We are pleased to launch the final Foreshore Master Plan, setting a shared direction for the care and management of our coast over the next 15 years.

Our 2025–26 Annual Report is now available, sharing the highlights of another exciting year caring for the 22 kilometres of coastal Crown land we manage.

Shaped by feedback from more than 1,200 community members and stakeholders, the Plan outlines priorities for protecting our natural environment, improving access and enhancing coastal facilities.

New trial to protect Hooded Plovers

Delivery will be staged over the coming years, with further community engagement as projects progress.

Barwon Coast is trialling a new three-phase approach to protecting vulnerable Hooded Plovers during the 2026–27 breeding season.

Thank you to everyone who contributed. The Plan and accompanying Closing the Loop report are available on our website.

The trial introduces graduated protection measures at high-risk nesting areas, with additional temporary restrictions as eggs approach hatching and chicks begin moving along the beach.

A Hooded Plover and chicks

The approach aims to give these threatened shorebirds the best chance of survival while helping beachgoers understand and plan around temporary closures.

The cover of the Foreshore Master Plan

Visit our website to learn more about the trial and share your feedback: barwoncoast.com.au/ HoodedPloverTrial

We care for the coast

Discover the technical work and planning helping shape the future of our coast, key projects delivered throughout the year, and how we worked with volunteers, stakeholders and project partners. Read the 2025–26 Annual Report by visiting barwoncoast.com.au/aboutus/publications

Damage to Crater toilet block at 13th Beach The Crater public toilet block at Thirteenth Beach has been temporarily closed following significant damage believed to have been caused by a vehicle collision. The area has been secured while structural assessments are undertaken. Alternative toilets are available at Beacon. Victoria Police has been notified. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact police.

Barwon Coast Committee of Management Inc. 7 Ewing Blyth Drive, Barwon Heads Vic 3227 T: 03 5254 1118 E: office@barwoncoast.com.au BarwonCoastVIC BarwonCoast www.barwoncoast.com.au

12831825-AF44-26

Friday, 30 October, 2026 OCEAN GROVE VOICE 7

NEWS

OCEANGROVEVOICE.COM.AU

Ambassador Jakara By Jena Carr Barwon Heads’ Jakara Anthony will trade her skis for pedals as event ambassador for the region’s biggst cycling event. The two-time Olympic skiing gold medallist joined Tour de France winner Cadel Evans, who is also a Barwon Heads local, on 20 October to mark 100 days until the 2027 Mapei Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race. Anthony said she was excited to join the event as an ambassador in her home town and looked forward to participating in the TAC People’s Ride alongside Evans. “Cycling is a big part of my training and something I just love doing, so I can’t wait to line up in the TAC People’s Ride alongside thousands of other riders,” she said. “It’s something that I’ve watched from afar for many years and always wanted to be involved in, so I’m pretty fortunate, given I’m going to be home over summer, to be involved. “I don’t think you’ll be seeing me in the pro ranks of cycling anytime soon, but it’s a big part of my training, and I do enjoy it, so I’m pretty keen to get out and ride some new routes. “What Cadel’s achieved throughout his career is absolutely mind-blowing... and I’m especially excited to see the world’s best cyclists competing in our region in such a great event.” Evans said it was great to have a fellow Barwon Heads local on board for the event, which runs from 27 to 31 January, and encouraged cyclists and cycling fans to start making plans for race week.

Cadel Evans and Jakara Anthony at Barwon Heads to mark 100 days to go until the Great Ocean Road Race. (Ivan Kemp)

“Jakara is one of the greatest athletes this country has produced, and to have her come from the same small town makes it pretty incredible,” he said. “Jakara knows what it takes to perform on the world stage, and she’s a genuine cycling lover too, so she’s the perfect

person to help us bring more people into the sport. “The ride gives people a great taste of what the pros will race on, so...it’s a great time to sign up and set yourself a New Year’s resolution or to keep improving and becoming more of a cyclist.”

Making preschools more accessible Clifton Springs Preschool will redevelop its outdoor area to create a more inclusive, accessible, playbased learning environment. The school will receive $107,844 from the state government. Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant said the upgrades will help remove physical barriers to participation and ensure children of all abilities can engage in meaningful play and learning. “We’re helping ensure every child on the Bellarine gets the best possible start, with opportunities to participate, build confidence and learn through play,” she said. Key improvements will include installing fully accessible pathways, replacing outdated fixed play equipment with inclusive structures, and developing Indigenous and raised vegetable gardens. Works also include building water play areas and an accessible sensory path, along with improvements to the existing mud hut and shaded play areas. Meli chief executive Robyn Hayles said “We’re excited to create more inclusive and accessible opportunities for children to play, explore and learn. The Clifton Springs Preschool playground upgrade will create a safe, handson outdoor learning environment where children can spend more time exploring and playing.”

Wallington artist Annie Finkelde will showcase her artworks during the Bellarine Arts Trail. (Ivan Kemp) 510297

A fabulous weekend of art By Jena Carr Artistic talent will be on full display this weekend as the Bellarine Arts Trail returns for another year. The free event will run from 10am to 4pm on Saturday 31 October and Sunday 1 November, spanning the Bellarine studios, galleries, and exhibition spaces. The trail is a Barwon Heads Arts Council (BHAC) initiative, and secretary Sara Taylor said the event featured a “fabulous weekend” completely run by volunteers. “The idea is to promote the range of arts we have across the region, featuring professional, emerging and beginning artists,” she said. “At some places, artists will be demonstrating how they work...helping showcase how much extraordinary artistic talent we have in the area. 12902185-JO44-26

8 OCEAN GROVE VOICE Friday, 30 October, 2026

“We have 70 individual artists who are registered and will cover all genres of sculpture, painting, watercolour, furniture, basket weaving, and anything else you can think of. “The trail is in its 10th year, so it’s been running since 2016, covering the four main towns along the coast, including Barwon Heads, Ocean Grove, Point Lonsdale and Queenscliff.” The trail will also feature a range of events, including the Rotary Club of Ocean Grove’s Art Show and The Weaverbirds’ fibre art demonstration at the Queenscliffe Neighbourhood House. People can visit Bellarine Arts Trail’s town maps on BHAC’s website for wheelchair accessible venues and available demonstrations. Visit bhac.org.au/bellarineartstrail for a trail map of locations across the Bellarine Arts Trail’s four towns.

OCEANGROVEVOICE.COM.AU

NEWS

MY BELLARINE Jules Wheeler is a transformational coach and the founder of Just Winning with Jules (justwinningwithjules.com) and the Confidence Studio in Ocean Grove. What do you love about living on the Bellarine? I love the pace, the beauty and that little bit of x-factor the Bellarine has. There’s room to breathe here, but there’s also so much going on. I’m forever finding another eclectic place to eat, visit or spend an afternoon. The connections have been a lovely part of making this home. I belong to Bellarine Cooks and Books, a group of 12 women who love to read and eat. We take turns hosting, choosing the book and setting a food theme inspired by it. We’ve had everything from a favourite dish your mum cooked to environmentally sustainable food, and even dishes where you explain the science behind the cooking process. At some stage we do talk about the book. They’re diverse, bright women, and the conversation is always a joy. What got you into being a coach and opening the Confidence Studio? After 30 years in teaching and experiencing burnout myself, I had to learn what it meant to stop. I’d spent so long supporting other people that I needed to turn some of that care towards myself. During my recovery, I explored tools that helped me rebuild my confidence, understand my values and think differently about what I wanted from life. Teaching and facilitating have always been part of who I am, so coaching became a way to bring those skills and experiences together.

I wanted to support other women through their own changes, whether that means a new direction, finding their voice or learning to back themselves. I’m meeting amazing women all the time here, and I honestly can’t believe how many interesting, dynamic women live on the Bellarine. What sort of people walk through your door? Women who want some space for themselves. Often they’ve spent years being everything to everyone, and somewhere along the way they’ve lost touch with what they want. Some are navigating burnout or a change in direction. Others want to explore something new, feel more confident or simply enjoy time where nobody needs anything from them. I want them to feel safe, welcomed and celebrated. What, if anything, would you change about the Bellarine? I was spoiled when I lived in Yarraville, where the village green and cafe culture created such a lovely place to gather. I’d love to see something like that along The Terrace in Ocean Grove: more greenery and space for people, with restaurants and cafes able to spill out into an area currently given to the road. Somewhere you could linger, bump into friends and spend time without needing to rush off. I think it would suit the community here beautifully.

Jules Wheeler and Leo. (Supplied)

Where is your favourite place to spend time on the Bellarine? One of my favourites is Manor Suite, at Oakdene. I love the Asian and Australian

flavours, the relaxed atmosphere, live music and the eclectic décor. It’s somewhere you can settle into a lounge, share a platter and let the afternoon unfold.

Carmelo Zebic and Rina Bayne will be serving fresh coffee at St Peter’s Church Fair. (Ivan Kemp) 585767

St Peter’s Church Ocean Grove Fair is back for bargains and fun all while supporting a good cause. It has been a good year for jams and preserves, and the cooks have been busy making marmalades, jams, pickles, sauces and relishes. Hot tip: get there early if you want relish and sauce as they always sell out quickly no matter how many jars are filled. Cakes, biscuits, slices, sponges, sausage rolls and many other homemade treats will be selling out fast. Plants will be out the front of the church with something for every gardener, from tomatoes, herbs, vegetables, succulents and all sorts of indoor and outdoor plants. The main stall holder is an expert as she works in a nursery and has grown many

of the plants herself and can answer questions. The church now has a proper cafe, open twice a week, and will be serving barista coffee, cakes and slices. This year there will be lots for children to do, at no cost, at the rear of the church. The craft group has been working hard to produce lots of interesting items and there will be a lucky dip. There will be a stall selling handmade bracelets created by some of the church’s talented ladies and don’t forget the fresh homemade bread and the flower stall. St Peter’s Church Fair is on Saturday 14 November from 9am to 12.30pm at the church on Draper Street, Ocean Grove. Cash only as there will be no electronic payments available.

12912943-RV44-26

Annual church fair is back

Friday, 30 October, 2026 OCEAN GROVE VOICE 9

ENVIRONMENT

OCEANGROVEVOICE.COM.AU

Bruny Island bird bounty I have just returned from a week in Tasmania, where I spent most of my time on Bruny Island. We stayed in an isolated home in the bush near Barnes Bay, which is located on North Bruny near where the ferry from Kettering docks. I woke in the morning with the sounds of striated pardalotes and laughing kookaburras. Other birds in the bush were grey shrikethrush, green rosella, brown thornbill, scarlet robin, clack currawong, and black-headed honeyeater. I did a walking tour of Inala Conservation Reserve, located on South Bruny, where we saw a grey goshawk, brown goshawk, forty-spotted pardalote, flame robin and strong-billed honeyeater, amongst around 40 species of birds. Everywhere I went on Bruny Island there were cuckoos calling, including fan-tailed, pallid, horsfield bronze and shining bronze cuckoos. I spent a day walking around Maria Island which was also brilliant for scenery and birds. Before I went to Tasmania, I walked around the farm in Wallington where I conduct a Birds on Farms survey every three months. I was very happy to see a juvenile black-shouldered kite as well as a juvenile wedge-tailed eagle.

Alan’s Latham’s snipe with a turtle at Blue Waters Lake.

Jen’s forty-spotted pardalote at Bruny Island.

I received an email from Alan, who told me that he has returned to Ocean Grove after being away for four months, mainly in Northern Territory via outback Queensland and New South Wales. Alan and his wife spent a couple of weeks at Lee Point in Darwin which was a great base for birding. On Alan’s first walk along the coastal path after unpacking the van, he was greeted by a flock of 150 to 200 red-tailed black cockatoos feeding in a burnt-out patch. Nearby Buffalo Creek was another good

Alan’s cattle egrets at Blue Waters Lake.

spot where Alan spotted with six ‘lifers’ that was totally unexpected, as he went there looking for a rainbow pitt which he didn’t find. The biggest disappointment was Lee Point itself with the burnt out and fenced off area set for construction of many new houses. This was where he was hoping to find his first Gouldian finch. The grass which the Gouldians normally feed off was burnt so there was no seed. This was such a pity as there is plenty of vacant land elsewhere on the outskirts of

Darwin that could be used for housing. It’s hard to understand why the government is so insistent on using this particular area for housing fully knowing that it is an important bird habitat, let alone a bird that is listed as endangered. Alan spent several weeks looking for Gouldians and had some luck near Tumbling Waters but they were juveniles, all yellow, unlike the colourful adults. The one adult he did briefly see through the lens, the camera of course focussed on the only blade of grass in front of the bird. Alan is still sorting through his photos, but he had plenty of birding highlights on his trip. He told me that five days doing bird surveys at AWC’s Bowra Wildlife Sanctuary was a joy. A sunrise cruise of Corroboree Billabong was spectacular with a multitude of birds not at all concerned about the proximity of the small boat. More concerning to his group was the proximity of our small boat to large saltwater crocodiles. Fogg Dam, Bird Billabong and Litchfield NP all provided great birdwatching. Alan finally got to see a rainbow pitta at Fogg Dam. Back home at Ocean Grove, Alan explained that it’s good to see Blue Waters Lake looking a bit clearer in regards to blue-green algae after heavy rain. Alan spotted two Latham’s snipe at the lake and eastern cattle-egret in breeding plumage. I noticed on eBird that Ocean Grove resident Chris spotted an osprey while standing on his back deck that overlooks the Bonneyvale Wetlands. It’s unusual to hear of an osprey in this area as they are only occasional visitors.

ENTERTAINMENT WITH MATT HEWSON

New take on timeless tragedy This November Australia’s premier national theatre company dedicated to the works of William Shakespeare brings its critically acclaimed version of the Bard’s most intense and psychologically terrifying tragedy to Geelong. Directed by artistic director Peter Evans, Bell Shakespeare will present Macbeth at Geelong Arts Centre for three performances on 6 to 7 of November. Transplanted to the uncertain interwar period of the 1920s, Evans’ production leans into the Edwardian macabre aesthetic of the era where the line between reality and the supernatural blurs.

Matilda Ridgway, who plays Lady Macbeth, said the work was as relevant as it had ever been. “I think what (Evans) is trying to do is really focus on the human toll of this,” she said. “The Macbeths end in madness and death, but then the whole community suffers when this kind of betrayal, this ambition and deception is allowed to go unchecked. “It feels like, from the response of the audience, people are ready for this play… it’s really hitting a nerve, I think.” Ridgway and Anthony Taufa (Macbeth)

Bell Shakespeare’s production of Macbeth stars Matilda Ridgway (Lady Macbeth) and Anthony Taufa (Macbeth). (Brett Boardman)

both have a long history with Bell Shakespeare, having performed in a

number of productions with the company since playing the same roles in an abridged version of Macbeth with its The Players program in 2012. “We’re all grown up now but we’re still mates, so it is the greatest privilege to get to be on stage every day with him,” she said of Taufa. “His transformation through this play is just mind-boggling. He starts as this incredibly gentle giant and ends as this cold, mad despot…he’s doing such extraordinary work.” Visit geelongartscentre.org.au for tickets and more information.

ARIA winning alt-country star balances the old and the new Dual ARIA award-winner and ten-time Golden Guitar recipient Fanny Lumsden is a proud feminist and an advocate for change around gender equality and the traditional expectations society places on women. One Australia’s finest songwriters and storytellers, Lumsden’s work – both in her music and through her fully independent business model – incorporate those themes. But having grown up as a member of a very traditional sheep farming family in central New South Wales, hundreds of kilometres from the nearest city, she knows intimately the value of the strong, independent ethos born in the red dirt of Australia. “I’ve got little kids now, my parents are

getting a bit older, and I had one of those moments where I reflected on how lucky I am, how I got here and what is worth taking forward,” Lumsden said. “I think when I was younger I threw away a lot of my farming family traditions, which lean conservative, but I threw the baby out with the bathwater there for a while. “Traditions and families are messy. I can value the traditions of my family whilst also understanding they were born of a flawed system. “So it’s about working out how I go forward in a progressive way that balances my autonomy and ambitions with those traditions.” Those themes will be on display when Lumsden brings her fifth studio album Traditions to Geelong’s Barwon Club for a

10 OCEAN GROVE VOICE Friday, 30 October, 2026

special all-ages gig as part of her east coast tour. The first of her albums to be recorded entirely live in the studio with her band the Daddies, Traditions also features Paul Kelly, with whom she toured with last year. “Vibes are high, and a bit stressful, just because we are running our own record label and trying to deliver something at a standard that maybe more people should be employed to do,” she said. “But I’m so proud of the record…We want (these shows) to be a lot of fun, so we can all have a moment together where we escape all the heaviness, have a bit of joy and go on with our lives feeling a little better.” Fanny Lumsden is at the Barwon Club on Friday 6 November. Visit barwonclub.com. au for more information.

Alt-country star Fanny Lumsden visits the Barwon Club as she tours her new album Traditions. (Supplied)

YOUR VOICE

WRITE TO: news@oceangrovevoice.com

Plea for pitch help

OCEANGROVEVOICE.COM.AU

CONTACT US PHONE \ 03 5249 6700 LOCATION \ 1/47 Pakington Street, Geelong West, 3218

By Cr Elise Wilkinson

DISTRIBUTION \ 1300 656 678 distribution@fermax.com.au

ADVERTISING GENERAL SALES INQUIRIES \ 03 5249 6700 advertising@geelongindependent.com.au CLASSIFIEDS \ 1300 666 808 EMAIL \ sales@networkclassifieds.com.au GENERAL REAL ESTATE INQUIRIES reads@starweekly.com.au

EDITORIAL EDITOR \ JUSTIN FLYNN newsdesk@voicegroup.com.au GENERAL EDITORIAL INQUIRIES newsdesk@voicegroup.com.au

facebook.com/oceangrovevoice

Published by Star News Group Pty Ltd ACN 005 848 108. Publisher/Managing Director, Paul Thomas All material is copyright to Geelong Independent Pty Ltd ACN 006 653 336. Responsibility for election comment is accepted by Paul Thomas. All significant errors will be corrected as quickly as possible. Distribution numbers, areas and coverage are estimates only. For our terms and conditions please visit www.starcommunity.com.au

We’re kicking goals for Ocean Grove soccer fans, with construction on new soccer pitches at Devlins Road reserve set to begin soon. During October’s meeting, council approved the contract for Devlins Road Active Open Space Construction project to the preferred tenderer. In recent years, the popularity of soccer has grown exponentially across the region especially among women and girls and the need for pitches is undeniable. With almost 7500 registered players across the Geelong region, there are pitch shortages every week during winter. Ocean Grove Soccer Club has outgrown its current home at Shell Road Reserve, and the planned move to Devlins Road, next to Oakdene Oval, will give it room to grow. Importantly, moving soccer to Devlins Road will relieve pressure on existing facilities at Shell Road Reserve and create opportunities for future improvements to facilities used by local football, netball and cricket clubs. Council has already committed $8 million towards the project, with the Australian government contributing another $5 million. This initial federal funding commitment will contribute towards a full-sized soccer pitch, a sports pavilion site as well as site preparation plus services connection, bulk earthworks, a car park and general landscaping. Council is seeking election commitments of $5 million from all parties in the upcoming Victorian state election to fund

Connewarre Ward councillor Elise Wilkinson.

additional critical elements of the Devlins Road Reserve master plan. Securing funding commitments from all candidates for the state seat of Bellarine would maximise the value of existing Commonwealth and City funding, helping deliver a complete and functional sporting precinct sooner. Proposed works would include a second full-sized natural turf soccer pitch with 100 lux LED competition-standard sports lighting and a 68m x 68m synthetic pitch. Ocean Grove is one of the region’s fastest-growing communities and Devlins Road is a transformational project that can’t wait. Completing the reserve in one coordinated build is the most efficient and cost-effective approach. It will save money, reduce disruption and deliver a far better outcome for the community. Delivery of facilities like this is extremely rare and an election commitment by all parties will enable an exceptional outcome for Ocean Grove and the broader Bellarine

Peninsula community. Meanwhile, over in Barwon Heads, the proposed redevelopment of the Village Park pavilion is also something I’m keen to see progress. The pavilion is used by local cricket, soccer and junior football clubs, and the existing facilities need an upgrade. The project is a key initiative identified and strategically supported within the Barwon Heads Village Park Master Plan and conceptual designs developed since its endorsement in 2021. The first stage would provide modern change rooms that better accommodate women and girls, along with improved storage and accessible public toilets. A second stage would add social spaces, undercover spectator areas and improvements to parking. The redevelopment is estimated to cost $6.2 million, with $2.6 million required for the first stage and a further $3.6 million for the second. Which is why I’m calling on all candidates for the state seat of Bellarine to support this important project. Our sporting clubs contribute so much to our communities, and I know just how much work our incredible local volunteers put into keeping them running. It’s important that the facilities keep pace with the number of people using them and that we’re planning ahead rather than waiting until clubs have completely outgrown the spaces available. I’ll keep pushing for both projects, so our local clubs and families have the facilities they need today, as well as room to grow for future generations.

Own your home, love your lifestyle. Over 50s Resort Living Benefits include: No stamp duty No entry or exit fees Keep 100% of any capital gain

DISPLAY HOMES NOW OPEN

BOOK A TOUR Come and explore our new display homes. 1300 088 181 oceangrove@thyme.com.au oceangrove.thyme.com.au

12912944-RV44-26

Friday, 30 October, 2026 OCEAN GROVE VOICE 11

COMMUNITY

OCEANGROVEVOICE.COM.AU

COMMUNITY CALENDAR WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? Community Calendar is made available free of charge to not-for-profit organisations to keep the public informed of special events and activities. Send item details to Voice Community Calendar, 1/47 Pakington Street, Geelong West, 3218, or email to newsdesk@voicegroup.com.au. Deadline for copy and announcements is 5pm Tuesday.

Bellarine Quilters 40th anniversary quilt exhibition, Seniors Community Hub, 21-27 Eversley St, Drysdale, Saturday 31 October and Sunday 1 November, 10am-4pm. Entry $5. Biennial quilt exhibition plus trading tables, raffles and light refreshments.

Ballroom dance Leopold Hall, 805-809 Bellarine Hwy, Saturday 31 October, 7.30-10.30pm, $10. Music: Kevin. Sunday 1 November, 2-4.30pm, $5. Music: Kevin. Bring a small plate to both.  0400-500 402

Bellarine Historical Society Open to the public. Discover the area’s past. Sundays 10.30am-12.30pm. Courthouse Museum, 11 High St, Drysdale.  bellarinehistory.org

Ocean Grove Day VIEW Meets second Wednesday of the month at 360Q, Queenscliff, 10.30am for 11am.  oceangroveday.viewclub@gmail.com

Leopold Library Tuesdays 2pm: Digital drop in for basic tech needs Free school holiday programs. All ages, all interests.  4201 0675, grlc.vic.gov.au

Combined Probus Club of Clifton Springs/Drysdale Meets second Monday of the month, Drysdale Bowling Club, 10am. Everyone is welcomed.  Bev, 0493-011 986, bev97008@gmail.com

Ocean Grove Snooker Club Avenue Avengers are a snooker team who play for Ocean Grove Snooker Club. The club, which has 12 teams, has been playing for 49 years. Matches are highly competitive but played in great spirit, with refreshments and supper at the end. This year’s 50th season is highly anticipated and celebrations are being planned. Avenue Avengers are looking to bolster numbers.  0448-391 366

Portarlington playgroup Experience play in an unstructured, relaxed environment. Large indoor space with toilets and baby change facilities. Suits 0-4years. Free to attend. Wednesdays 10-11.30am, Parks Hall Portarlington.

Ocean Grove Soft Tennis Friendly group of active women retirees who have played soft tennis for many years. The game is similar to Pickleball. Ocean Grove Memorial Hall, 123 The Avenue, Mondays 1.30-3.30pm. No experience necessary. Just a desire to keep fit and have fun.  Megan, 0439-317 344

CWA Nightlights Ocean Grove Ocean Grove Library Wednesday 18 November, 2-3pm: book chat Tuesday 24 November, 2-3pm: saving to the cloud Mondays 10.30-11.30am: Preschool Story Time (during school term) Tuesdays 4-5pm: Youth Collective - ages 12-18 (during school term) Wednesdays 9.30-10am: Toddler Time (during school term) Thursdays 11.30-11.50am: Baby Time (all year) Thursdays 3.45-4.45pm: after school program (during school term)

Bellarine Presbyterian Church Services Sunday 10am, Ocean Grove Senior Citizens’ Clubrooms, 101 The Terrace, Ocean Grove.  Rev Brett Cummins, 0438-218 864, secretary Neil Mansfield 0405-064 976

The Big Read Meets every other Wednesday from February 5, 10.30am-noon, Ocean Grove Senior Citizens’ Club, 101 The Terrace.  Paul, 0425-110 792

Barefoot bowls Point Lonsdale Bowls Club every Friday and Sunday evening during the holidays. Live music every second Sunday.  5258 1150

Meets the first and third Monday of the month, 2.30pm, Seniors Club, 102 The Terrace, Ocean Grove. All welcome.  Kareen 041-924 6346, Janis 5255 4585

Bellarine Women’s Workshop Portarlington Girl Guides Hall. Meets every second Thursday, and second Saturday of the month.  Facebook: Bellarine Women’s Workshop for further details

Book club Leopold CAE book club meets second Tuesday each month from 6.30pm. Very friendly group. New members welcome.  Shirley, 0488 055 969

Chess clubs For chess fun simply come along and see yourself, play some chess, meet some members, with no obligation to join. We welcome players of all abilities. Ocean Grove, Tuesdays at 1.30pm at 101 The Terrace, Ocean Grove; Portarlington, Mondays at 9.30am, Parks Hall, 87 Newcombe Street, Portarlington; and St Leonards, Thursdays at 9.30am, unit 2 1375-1377 Murradoc Rd, (on Blanche St), St Leonards.  Ralph, 0431-458 100 (Ocean Grove), Rob, 5259 2290 (Portarlington), Lyn, 5292 2162 (St Leonards)

Ocean Grove Senior Citizens Live music Bellarine Country Music Group meets Friday nights at Belmont Park Pavilion, music 7-10pm, $10 entry all welcome.

101 The Terrace, Ocean Grove Weekly Tuesday: 1pm snooker, chess, indoor bowls Wednesday: bingo 1.15pm, ukulele class

12 OCEAN GROVE VOICE Friday, 30 October, 2026

1.30pm, Chord Club jam session 4pm Thursday: social afternoon, cards 500 1pm Friday: art classes 9am, social art group 1pm. Fortnightly 1st & 3rd Monday: CWA, 2pm  Paschal, 0426-889 456 Wednesday: Book club, 10.30am  Paul, 0425-110 792  5255 2996, groveseniors101@gmail. com

Ocean Grove Evening VIEW Meets on the fourth Wednesday of the month at 6.30pm. Supporting disadvantaged children through education.  oceangroveevening.viewclub@gmail.com

Leopold VIEW Second Tuesday of each month, Leopold Sportsmans’ Club, 10.30am.  leopold.viewclub@gmail com

Drysdale Ladies Probus Club Carpet bowls Leopold Hall 805-809 Bellarine Highway, Leopold, Wednesday and Friday, 1pm-3.15pm. Admission: $4 includes afternoon tea.  0400-500 402

Scottish dancing GOG Scottish Country Dance classes 7.30pm Tuesdays at Leopold Hill Hall, $5. No partner needed.  Vicki, 0412-762 983, Barbara, 0419-511 781

Springs TOWN Springs TOWN Club (Take Off Weight Naturally) meets Mondays, 9-10.30am at the Community Hub, 23 Eversley Street, Drysdale. Weigh-in, group therapy and regular relaxation sessions. $5 per session, $54 annual fee.  Bev, 0421-636 830

Bellarine TOWN Bellarine TOWN Club meets Wednesdays, noon-2pm at Ocean Grove Community Centre, 1 John Dory Drive. Affordable, supportive group for those trying to lose weight.  0478-615 683

Drysdale Day VIEW Supporting The Smith Family for fun and friendship while supporting disadvantaged students. Meetings at Portarlington Golf Club for lunch on the fourth Friday of each month.  Margaret, 0431-636 090

Meets at 10.30am on the fourth Monday of each month at the Clifton Springs Golf Club.  Raelene, 4244 0376

Afternoon tea dance Life Activities Club [Geelong Inc] hosts an afternoon tea dance on Thursdays, 2-4pm, at Belmont Park Pavilion. Entry: $5.  5251 3529

CWA Drysdale Meets Drysdale RSL, Princess St, Drysdale on the second Tuesday of the month. Meetings start at 1pm followed by afternoon tea. Friendly group looking to recruit new members.  Jenni, 0452-258 333

Writers’ group The Hub writers’ group meets at Arts Hub, Clifford Parade, Barwon Heads, on the first Sunday of the month 2-4pm. New members welcome.  dorothy.johnston@hugonet.com.au

Mainly Music Music and fun for preschoolers during term time at the Welcome Centre, St Mark’s, Vicarage Road, Leopold, Thursdays at 9.15-11am. $5 per family per week.  Text: 0461 582 618 for bookings

Mahjong Tuesdays 1-4pm, Neighbourhood Centre, 1 John Dory Drive, Ocean Grove. Come try it, new players welcome.  Sandra, 0423 047 862

OCEANGROVEVOICE.COM.AU

NEWS

Alex Barrios and Sandy Khun.

Kerry Kennedy with grandson Rufus and Stanley.

Sue Scott with Teddy.

Dylan Forras about to hit the surf.

Out and about Voice photographer Ivan Kemp went to Ocean Grove main beach on a cool spring

day on Tuesday 27 October to see who was out and about.

Anna Portelli and daughter Fontaine.

David Colson at Dunes cafe.

Charlie Le-Hage taking time to relax.

Liam Bergman and Chiara Macleod from Newcomb Secondary College.

Archie Merriman hoping for a wave or two.

Keiko Hayashi ready to hit the water.

Jane Craig out for a walk.

Friday, 30 October, 2026 OCEAN GROVE VOICE 13

KEEP IT LOCAL

Advertising feature

Christine’s story wins 2026 Bellarine writing competition

The eighth year of the Bellarine Writing Competition produced some of our best stories but with a smaller number of entries than previously. This year’s finalists, Jenny Macaulay, Mark Towse, Ann Whisken and Christine Scheiner have all had success in previous rounds. Unfortunately Sue Ward, who produced an outstanding winning story this year based on the picture of a railway line, was ill and unable to contribute for the final competition. We wish her well and look forward to receiving more stories from her in the future. - Alan Cobham Judges’ comments Christine’s writing is consistent and wellpaced. She tackled a difficult theme and put a lot of thought into how to respond to the prompt. The story mimics the gentle current of a river as it meanders back and forth through time and different periods in the life of character Ilse. There have been multiple moments where Ilse has been laid bare and this exposure has prepared her to open herself to the next phase of existence with warmth and understanding.

Where the River Bends By Christine Scheiner The drumming of the machine gun bullets is relentless, some into flesh, some into air, some splashing through the water of the river. Ilse clings to the reeds along the muddy bank, half submerged and freezing, watching as her parents and younger brother are pulled by the current into the centre of the river. The shooting continues and their heads disappear underwater with a red-tinged wake, its trail quickly vanishing around a bend in the river. Her soft white hands grip the reeds tightly and the drumming fades, replaced by her own sobs. It feels like stones hitting the inside of her skull, this sound that is pulled from within her. She looks at her hands and cannot understand why her skin is suddenly withered and covered in age spots, and her knotted fingers are clutching a soft woollen blanket. It takes Ilse a few moments to realise it’s rain on the tin roof of her home in Camberwell, not artillery fire along the river in 1943 German-occupied France. A thin beam of daylight lay across the

Christine Scheiner.

foot of her bed, a small streak peeking through a crack in the curtains, like the hand of God pointing to her. The house was quiet and at first she could not think why this day was different to any other. Then she remembered. Today was a day of lasts. This was the last day she would have to turn on the heater. The last time she would make her own toast or morning cup of tea. An ending and a beginning. These past few days her whole life has been stripped down, laid bare and packed neatly into boxes waiting to be moved into her final home. Her hand gently traces over the top of a large cardboard box, and she feels saddened that 96 years of living has compacted down into these few cartons. Ever since her husband Gil died, Ilse has felt like a shattered vase, the broken

EUROPEAN VEHICLE

SPECIALISTS AutoLogic Diagnostics FRIENDLY, FULLY QUALIFIED & EXPERIENCED TECHNICIANS Specialising in all vehicle makes and models including European vehicles such as Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Volkswagen, etc. AUTO CARE OCEAN GROVE 13-15 Sinclair Street Ocean Grove. Ph: 5255 1045 info@autocareoceangrove.com.au www.autocareoceangrove.com.au

Pick up delivery service covering all of the Bellarine Peninsula. Pensioner Discounts.

NATIONAL SERVICE CENTRE OF THE YEAR FOR 2022 12586402-AI04-23

14 OCEAN GROVE VOICE Friday, 30 October, 2026

pieces never quite fitting back together again as they should – like she was still whole but somehow bits of her were missing. Ilse wonders how she can go on, losing all that she loved not once, but twice now. How do you come back from such a thing? Her once vivid green eyes are dulled by age, but her mind is still sharp and knowing. She thinks how lucky she is that age has not stolen her memories, like so many of her friends – their minds taken by dementia before finally succumbing to death. Although bitter memories sit like rocks in her belly and joyful memories flutter like hummingbirds, they all take her soul where her feet can no longer go. She pulls herself out of bed, bare feet touching the smooth floorboards, and cannot stop herself looking through the unsealed packing boxes. Photo albums sit beside china trinkets, and yellowed sheet music is rolled up in between – not that she needs to read the music anymore, she knows all her favourite pieces well. Her eyes travel to her battered violin case, its mismatched hinges a testimony to Gil’s handyman skills. The echo of him fills the house even now and her heart catches a little. She is tired of hearing only the echoes of her past. Ilse pushes her palms into her closed eyes and threads her fingers through her thinning white hair, but it’s like her hands belong to another and they reach for her violin. Its familiar feel and resin woody smell transport her away from this lonely empty house. Her arthritic fingers are not quite as adept as in her younger years, but even so, the melancholy of the music fills her. Suddenly, she can feel Gil’s eyes watching. Her heart soars, creating a seamless bridge from present to past. But when she opens her eyes, she is still alone in her bedroom, anguish meshing with appalled relief that Gil was spared this

unbearable loneliness. Of all the hardships she has faced, Ilse thinks this is the hardest. The aloneness of it. She wants to crumple, not fill her lungs with breath and go on. She doesn’t believe in God anymore, she has seen too many unspeakable things to think God would permit such happenings. She recalls the puzzled look from a doorknocker years ago, who asked her if she had found God. She had retorted that she didn’t realise he was lost…and that she knew exactly where he was. God was under the jack boots of Nazi soldiers and flowing under the water in European rivers and in lonely unmarked grave sites in remote forests and she could go on and on…. She almost felt sorry for the young man when he silently fled, accidentally leaving a few scattered pamphlets on her front lawn in his haste to get away. Ilse is waiting, sitting on a seat in the garden when the pain hits her. It is deliciously sweet and agonising at the same time. As her heart falters, she looks up to the sky and feels soft rain on her skin. The scent of the roses that Gil once tended so carefully folds over her like a caress. There is nothing left for her here and she craves to be held by him again. As she begins to lose consciousness, memories seep like honey from a tipped jar and pull her back to the river. Rain trickles down Ilse’s spine, and she can feel her mother’s hands on her back, pushing her deep into the river reeds before the current drags her downstream. The vast grey sky quivers and the rain begins to torrent down with force. Ilse knows that her life with Gil has been more than it could have ever been with anyone else, and even now he finds her. He grasps her heart and pulls it into the light. Entwined, they follow the current down the river, drifting together, until they vanish where the river bends.

OCEANGROVEVOICE.COM.AU

NEWS

Mahalia, Harlee and Milla with a 31-day old Angus calf.

Sophie on her pony Arielen Bently.

Taleesa Dwyer with her son Rocky as he pats a miniature harlequin sheep that grow hair and not wool.

Ava and Zoe with one-day-old chicks.

Family fun at Geelong show The Royal Geelong Show hit town from 15 to 18 October with heaps to see and do. Voice photographer Ivan

Kemp went to Geelong Showgrounds on Sunday 18 October to take in all the colour and fun.

The showbags and rides attracted a crowd.

Shorty with Kellie Symes and her sons Sol and Tully.

Thelma tries her hand at catching the lucky duck.

Keenan Fox in action shearing a sheep.

Hudson and Hailey with showbags.

Claudia and Martin Martinez with son Cosmo.

One way to get away from the crowds.

The Warrior is quite a ride.

Friday, 30 October, 2026 OCEAN GROVE VOICE 15

networkclassifieds.com.au networkclassifieds.com.au Trades & Services CARPENTERS

Lloyd Kennedy | lccarpentry21@outlook.com

DEADLINE

PLUMBING

Placing your classified advert is so easy... Online: networkclassifieds.com.au (24/7) Phone: 1300 666 808 (Open 8.30-5pm Mon-Fri) Email: sales@networkclassifieds.com.au

12904357-RV39-26

If you would like your child/children aged 1-10 years to receive a letter from Santa get them to write to : Santa c/-Ocean Grove & Barwon Heads Lions Club PO Box 229 Ocean Grove 3226 Please make sure you have the child’s name and address on the back of the envelope. This is a community service provided by Ocean Grove Barwon Heads Lions Club Final letters to be received by Friday December 18th 2026

• WILLS • POWERS OF ATTORNEY

• PROBATE • ESTATE DISPUTES

Offering a convenient mobile service. Discounted pensioner rates. Contact us for an appointment.

www.eklegal.com.au | 0407 562 355 | emily@eklegal.com.au

Employment

section of Network Classifieds.

Motoring 12912497-AF46-26

12913167-AF44-26

• Maintenance works • Fencing • Decking • Pergolas

High quality legal services with a friendly and positive edge in Geelong

EMERSON KILPATRICK LEGAL

Santa Letters

Any job big or small, don’t hesitate to call!

WANTED TO BUY

CARS WANTED ANY MAKE • ANY MODEL • ANY CONDITION

24/7

(include your name, address and phone number)

We accept payment by:

TOP CASH PAID $$$

Motoring

Jacob 0422 076 298

section of Network Classifieds.

EMERGENCY CALLOUTS

12913422-GS44-26

0402 632 039 |

LEGAL SERVICES

PUBLIC NOTICES AND EVENT LC CARPENTRY & MAINTENANCE SERVICES

CARPENTER & ODD JOB SPECIALIST Services offered • Internal lock up • External lock up • Fix out • Letterbox Installs

Professional Services

General Notices

VISA/MASTERCARD/EFTPOS

HOME MAINTENANCE

Mark Durbidge 0412 128 515 www.mydadthefixitman.com.au

... You name it, he can fix it, repair it and make it... just ask him.

ANTENNAS Kendall Antenna Services

ALL JOBS BIG OR SMALL FAST HONEST PROFESSIONAL

AUTOMOTIVE

CALL A LOCAL

BEAUTY/HAIR

0417 006 336 Lic. 108668

Auto Care OceanGrove (Repco) Swish Beauty & Hair - Leopold

0404 019 781

A1 Chimney Sweep & Co

0352 503 243

General Classifieds

0426 897 479

0400 686 394

Family holidays a thing of the past!

Drysdale Denture Services Ryan Davies

5251 1683

Ocean Grove Denture Services Ryan Davies

5255 4533

Ca$h deal for your wheels! Your advertisement will be published in the Classified section for 15 weeks. Advertise your car, motorbike, truck, tractor, trailer, caravan, campervan, machinery or even your boat (with trailer), houseboat or other water toys. Include a colour photo for no extra charge.

56

FENCING

*

Cusma Fencing

with photo

Kings Funerals William Sheahan Funerals Tuckers Funeral and Bereavement Service

3) Extra charge for extra lines above 10. 4) Extra colour pics only $5.50 each.

Phone our friendly classified staff on

1300 666 808

We accept

sales@networkclassifieds.com.au

0421 443 543

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

202628003-AM27-26

*Conditions: 1) Private sellers only. No refunds once sold. 2) Maximum of 10 lines including heading.

$

From

5256 2500 4246 0300 0432 961 910 5256 1295 5255 5655

4224 7416

PLUMBING A-Z Plumbing Pty Ltd 03 5210 6723 Southern Plumbing Services 0419 390 222

SECURITY DOORS

Barwon Power Solutions 0448 884 322 Grove Electrical (REC 16943) 0404 022 952 T Newman Electrical Services 0432 413 338

Looking to upgrade your boat?

Bellarine Eyecare Ocean Eyes Optometrists

Allied Physiotherapy 5258 0828

ELECTRICIAN Time for a new car?

4206 7200

PHYSIOTHERAPY

Ocean Breeze Dental Pty Ltd 0352 552 584

section of Network Classifieds.

Epichealth Portarlington Epichealth Ocean Grove Marketplace Epichealth Ocean Grove Ocean Plaza Ocean Grove Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine

OPTOMETRISTS

DENTAL BCH Private Dental Services Point Lonsdale

13 15 46

HEALTH & WELLBEING 5255 1045

COMPUTER SERVICES Tech on Demand

GARDEN & HOME MAINTENANCE Jim’s Mowing

CHIMNEY SWEEPS

12338330-RC07-17

· Kitchen, Bathroom and Laundry renovations · Robe and Sliding door fitouts · Plastering repairs, painting and tiling · General carpentry · Decking, Pergolas · Lawn mowing, Garden care and all your home maintenance needs.

Business DIRECTORY

12836072-MS02-26

Deadline for all classifications is 5pm Wednesday.

12775034-MS21-25

Ask about our discounted ongoing advertising rates and how choosing more newspapers gives your advertising more impact and saves you money...

General Classifieds

HOT WATER UNITS REPLACED TODAY BLOCKED DRAINS & DRAIN CAMERA COOLING, HEATING, TAP, TOILET SERVICE & RENEW ROOFING & GUTTERING WOOD HEATERS & GAS LEAKS

12323120-KC37-16

(1.5% credit card processing fee applies. Cheques and money orders can be posted in or hand delivered to our local office)

5248 3444 5251 3477

Geelong Security Doors

5256 2985

SEWING MACHINE SERVICING Heights Sewing Centre

5229 3558

SURVEYORS Smith Land Consulting

5222 1234

TAKEAWAY Woodies Pizza

5255 4307

TYRES Surfside Tyre Centre

5255 5611

YOGA STUDIO 5221 4788

Lotus Yoga Studio

0432 067 978

1300 666 808 12914036-CV44-26

16 OCEAN GROVE VOICE Friday, 30 October, 2026

PUZZLES

DECODER 7 21

6

4

2

10

8

25

9 4 3

25

I

14

hard

1 6 4 8 9

8 9

9

26

25

2 11

21

11

1

I

4

19

18

24

11

21

R

19

25 19

15

4

4

2

5

2

2 16

15

26

R

2

16

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

I R

26 13

2 1 3 5 7 6 8 9 4 9 5 4 2 1 8 3 7 6 7 6 8 9 4 3 1 5 2 3 9 7 1 8 4 2 6 5 6 8 2 7 3 5 4 1 9 5 4 1 6 2 9 7 8 3 1 7 5 3 6 2 9 4 8 4 2 9 8 5 1 6 3 7 8 3 6 4 9 7 5 2 1

1 3 8 2 9 5 4 7 6 7 9 4 3 8 6 2 5 1 6 2 5 7 1 4 3 9 8 3 1 9 4 6 7 8 2 5 4 6 2 8 5 1 9 3 7 8 5 7 9 3 2 6 1 4 9 4 3 1 7 8 5 6 2 2 7 6 5 4 3 1 8 9 5 8 1 6 2 9 7 4 3

26

9-LETTER WORD Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in 's'.

U

Today’s Aim: 18 words: Good 27 words: Very good 36 words: Excellent

S

T

R

U

P L

4

E

10

6

7

8

11

13 14

15

17

16

19

20 22 23

24

25

26 27

28

29

30

WORDFIT 3 LETTERS ADO AGE ANT ART AVO BEE BOA DAY DEW EAR EAT EEL END ERR GAG HEM ILL LAP LID PAT TOE TOW TWO WAR

No. 313

B E E 5 LETTERS ABOUT ADOBE AGILE AGREE ALGAE AWARE BELOW CAVED CLINK CLUMP CRUDE DELTA DEMON DOLES DRESS EAGLE ELUDE EVILS FACTS FIGHT GRAPE

4 LETTERS BLOT BONE BYTE CASE DINE ESKY GLEN HOPE IDOL ISLE SEWS SPOT STAY TIDE

GRUEL HEADY HEART IGLOO LARGE LATCH LAYER LINGO MAPLE OCEAN ODOUR ORDER PERIL PIVOT PRONE RENEW RINSE SERUM SLAYS SLEPT STEPS STERN

STRUT TASTE TOMES TONAL TREES VIRAL WEDGE

7 LETTERS ANAEMIA ASTRIDE AVOCADO CHORTLE ENAMELS SHUNNED

6 LETTERS LEAPED SOLDER TEPEES WELLED

8 LETTERS FLAGPOLE LICORICE PARALLEL YOURSELF

30-10-26

Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down.

Which airline has been rated the ‘World's Best’ in the Skytrax World Airline Awards the most times?

2

NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

The book-gifting program Imagination Library was founded by which musician?

3

Dannebrog is the name for the national flag of which country?

4

The 2014 song Bang Bang by Jessie J features Nicki Minaj (pictured) and which pop artist?

5

Which poet has won the Pulitzer Prize the most times, with a total of four awards?

QUICK QUIZ

18

21

1

No. 420

5

12

crept, cusp, cutpurse, erupt, erupts, lupus, pelt, pelts, pert, pest, plus, puce, pule, pules, pulse, pure, purest, purl, purls, purse, pursue, pustule, puts, scruple, sculpt, SCULPTURE, slept, slurp, spelt, spruce, spur, spurt, step, super, upset, usurp

L U S T A L P H S T E E E R A S R A K E

S A L E S

1 7 6 4 5 2 8 9 3 8 9 2 3 7 6 4 5 1 5 4 3 1 9 8 2 7 6 2 6 4 7 8 5 1 3 9 9 3 1 6 2 4 5 8 7 7 8 5 9 3 1 6 4 2 3 2 8 5 6 7 9 1 4 6 1 7 8 4 9 3 2 5 4 5 9 2 1 3 7 6 8

S

I

I

11

I

8

12

K

S

L

25

26

19

10

7

25

R

E

H

16 16

16

25

C

S

R

20

6

11

R

L

S

26

5

10

S

R

4

4

9

L

11

3

8

5x5

26

21

20 20

I

19

19

hard

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

11

2

7

medium

10

1

6

easy

4

8

5

5 9

25

18

4

2 5 3 7 8

R

2

3

6

11

4

7

26

10

2

11

10

R

15

18

I

26

R

8

18

11

26

10

11

16

2

24

22 25

24

2

26

12

21

23

1

11

F E X N Z J B Y D T A Q P

8 5 3 8

10

16

I

22

7

10

7

V G O K M S C L U W H I R

2 6 1 3

2

21

23 17

4

25

R

I

13

19

R

8

9 2

19

24

10

2

7

2 9 3

6 5 4

3

11

21

6 2 5 9

11

No. 345 19

20

7

14

19

3

16 18 21 22 24 25

26

8 6 2 7

8 9 14

2

1 3 7

29 30

18

medium

23 25 27 28

17

2 6 7 6 8 9 4 5 3 7 6 5 7 5 5 4 7 3 7 6 2 9 4 8 4 1 6 4 2

16

6 8

Built by children on the beach (10) Nightmares (3,6) Heading to one's job (3,2,4) Protruding teeth (5) Posture (6) 1988 animated Japanese sci-fi film set in Neo-Tokyo (5) Swarm (4) Submissive (6) People who holiday on Saturday and Sunday (10) Make reprisals (9) Blood type (1-8) Cordial (6) Postpones (6) Fragrance (5) Italian sauce containing basil (5) Contraction for ‘is not’ (3’1)

1 2 4 5 6 7

15

1

3 9

14

easy

2

DOWN

Backup (coll) (3) Competitor (10) Dozes (4,3) Holiday destination (7) Hallways (9) Blue printing colour (4) Tony Hawk’s ride (10) Uncommon (4) Drunk (4) Pad of drawing paper (10) Storm (4) Rhythmic vibration (9) Rainfall events (7) US singer, dancer and actor, Fred – (7) Displaces (10) Emergency rooms (abbr) (3)

1 3 10 11 12 13 15 17 19 20

1

6

In Mario Kart games, what colour shell automatically targets and attacks the lead racer?

7

What name is the biennial Test match between Australia and England known by?

8

The Head of Franz Kafka is a kinetic sculpture located in which city?

9

What is the endpoint of the Melbourne Marathon?

10 What is the second highest rank of British nobility? ANSWERS: 1. Qatar Airways 2. Dolly Parton 3. Denmark 4. Ariana Grande 5. Robert Frost 6. Blue 7. The Ashes 8. Prague 9. Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) 10. Marquess

ACROSS

No. 313

F I G H T S L A Y S C A V E D P I V O T A G I L E A G R E E C L U M P O D O U R S E R U M T O E E A T C R U D E A D O T A S T E G L E N S O L D E R A S T R I D E W A R S T A Y I D O L L A T C H T OW D I N E F L A G P O L E E N A M E L S A N A E M I A B Y T E E N D P A R A L L E L S L E P T I S L E E S K Y L A P C H O R T L E H O P E A B O U T W E L L E D S T E R N B O A A V O E R R A D O B E L I N G O P E R I L O C E A N E A G L E R E N E W W E D G E D R E S S T R E E S

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.

QUICK CROSSWORD

1

No. 313

S U B C O N T E S T A N T A A D F U T K E N O D S O F F S E A S I D E D D C T K N R M C O R R I D O R S C Y A N A E L W E W S K A T E B O A R D R A R E T M R E P E S K E T C H B O O K L U S H E D A E S E R A G E P U L S A T I O N R F E I R T D I S H OW E R S A S T A I R E N M R T T Y V R T R A N S P O S E S E R S

SUDOKU

Friday, 30 October, 2026 OCEAN GROVE VOICE 17

MOTOR

Quick, but you pay a price By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring It’s the IM5 and if you’re wondering who or what that is, so were we. IM stands for Intelligence in Motion and it is the upmarket division of MG (like Lexus is to Toyota), with vehicles that have been developed jointly with the likes of SAIC Motor and the Alibaba Group. In Australia, the brand is known officially as IM Presented by MG Motor. Most punters however refer to the car as the MG IM5. Good luck with that. The all-electric IM5 sedan/coupe appears to be targeted primarily at the Tesla Model 3. The IM6 SUV at the Tesla Model Y.

Styling There are three grades from which to choose: Premium, Platinum and Performance. Premium is priced from $60,990, Platinum from $69,990 and Performance from $80,990 – all plus on-roads. At a glance, the three appear to be almost identical. You need to dig a little deeper to work out the differences, most of which are confined to the drivetrain department – rather than the equipment list. Premium is powered by a single electric motor that delivers 217kW of power and 450Nm of torque to the rear wheels, with a 75kWh battery and range of 490km. Mid-range Platinum is also rear-wheel drive, but with a more powerful 300kW/500Nm electric motor, and a larger 100kWh battery and range of 655km. Range-topping Performance adds all-wheel drive to the equation, with two electric motors that offer 200kW/320Nm at front and 372kW/500Nm at the rear, with a 100kWh battery and range of 575km (it takes more effort to drive four wheels). Of note Premium is built on 400-watt architecture, while Platinum and Performance share the more advanced 800-watt format that in theory means faster charging, providing you can access a compatible charger. Those range figures by the way are under the newer, more realistic WLTP testing procedure. Our test vehicle was the Performance model, apparent from the 20-inch wheels and P-Zeros plus the fact it blazes out of the gates like a Space X rocket. Creature comforts include synthetic leather, two-zone climate air with rear vents, an air quality system, heated seats front and back, plus cooling for the front, heated steering wheel, heated/cooled console box, a full-length glass roof and power operated tailgate. There’s also air suspension, LED lights front and back, push-button hands-free parking. IM5 is covered by a seven-year unlimited kilometre warranty, plus eight years on the battery, with service due every 20,000km or 12 months.

Infotainment Infotainment comes in the form of dual 12.3-inch screens, with a third 10.5-inch screen that sits in the console. There’s Bluetooth, Hello IM voice control, satnav, AM/FM and DAB+ digital radio, CarPlay and Android Auto. Sound comes from a 20-speaker audio system that includes four small roof-mounted speakers. It’s described as a 7.4.1 setup based on the fact it has 7 x ear-level channels, 1 x subwoofer channel, and 4 x height/ overhead channels. There’s also wireless phone charging, a card reader, three USB-C ports (2 x front and 1 x back) and a 12-volt outlet virtually hidden at the rear of the lower console.

Iron out the niggles and MG could be on to a good thing. (Pictures: Supplied)

Safety IM5 scores a full five stars for safety, with dual frontal, side chest-protecting and side head-protecting airbags standard. A centre airbag which provides added protection to front seat occupants in side impact crashes is also standard. Autonomous emergency braking (Car-to-Car, Vulnerable Road User, Junction & Crossing, Backover and Head-On) as well as a lane support system with lane keep assist (LKA), lane departure warning (LDW) and emergency lane keeping (ELK), and a speed sign recognition system, are standard equipment.

Engines/transmissions Performance model boasts two electric motors, with a total 572kW of power and 820Nm of torque on tap, with drive to all four wheels via a reduction-style single-speed transmission.

Driving The IM5 is quick, that’s for sure. But it’s not the most practical car we’ve ever driven. With pop-out door handles and a key fob with a complete lack of labels, the first task is to work out how to get in and out of the thing. Sitting low to the ground, with an equally low roofline, that can require some athleticism. Rather than stick your foot in first, it’s more a case of pivoting 90 degrees and planting your bum on the seat, then swivelling sideways and swinging your legs in – being careful to duck as you do. Once in, there’s no starter button, the system is live from get-go and so it is simply a matter of moving the column-mounted gear selector up or down to select drive or reverse. And a word of caution here. Mistaking the gear selector for the indicator stalk can send the car shooting forward, scaring the pants off you – because this engages cruise control.

18 OCEAN GROVE VOICE Friday, 30 October, 2026

This oversight is not confined to the MG or IM and is really something that needs to be addressed. IM5 is 4931mm in length, 1960mm wide and 1474mm high with a 2950mm wheelbase, and weighs in at 2300kg in top spec. There’s 457 litres of luggage space in the boot with another 18 litres under the front bonnet where you’ll find the tyre repair kit secreted. Rear storage expands to 1290 litres with the second-row seats folded. A 12V outlet for that fridge is provided in the back. Depending on what grade you go for dictates the drivetrain supplied. Premium sits on 400-watt architecture with a 75kWh battery, Platinum and Performance boasts an 800-watt figure, with a larger 100kWh battery to boot. Premium and Platinum are rear-wheel drive, Performance is all-wheel drive. The easiest way to tell them apart is by the wheels. Entry Premium sits on 19s, while Platinum and Performance score 20s (the latter fitted with expensive Pirelli rubber). IM5 is equipped with what the company describes as revolutionary bi-directional rear-wheel turning technology, offering up to 12 degrees of rear-wheel articulation. First off, it’s been around off and on for almost 40 years, since its introduction with the third-generation Honda Prelude 4WS in 1987. Mazda also offered it at one stage. An industry-leading feature, MG says this advanced system dramatically reduces the turning circle and transforms the driving experience, making it comparable to that of a compact hatchback. It helps, but let’s not get carried away – if the effect was that dramatic it would be standard on just about every car. The 10.5-inch touchscreen in the centre console is better described as the control screen, because just about everything is operated from here.

That wouldn’t be so bad if the controls and their locations were more intuitive. Two roller buttons are also provided on the steering wheel but are not labelled. We were unable to find a control for something as simple as resetting the trip computer which says a lot. Shaped like a car, the key fob has no attachment points, so can’t be added to a key ring and runs the risk of ending up in the wash. At times, it simply refused to work. Every time we got into the car, we were accosted by a privacy nag that required ticking a box and hitting another button before control screen access was granted. Then there’s the satnav. To get it working you have to pull over, put it in Park, tick another box, scan a QR code, then read and sign off on a privacy statement – we just couldn’t work out how. Most of the time we also had to manually reconnect our phone because the system simply ignored it. Talk about frustrating. Rear and over-the-shoulder vision is a challenge, particularly through the tiny rear window, which is better described as a porthole. Then there’s the incessant bings and bongs from the various driver warning systems. As a temporary fix, put a band aid over the camera that is mounted on the driver’s side roof pillar. Buy the car and we’d recommend surgery. The dash from 0-100km/h can be dispatched in a Ferrari-quick 3.2 seconds, with a top speed of 268km/h. E n e r g y consumption is a claimed 19.7 kWh/100km (we were getting 20.5 kWh after more than 350km of mixed driving). While ride quality is impressive thanks to adaptive air suspension and continuous damping system fitted, the car feels more at home on the super smooth pavement offered by the motorway. This despite the staggered, ultra-low profile 245/40 and 275/35 series Pirelli P-Zeros. It’s also incredibly quiet in the cabin thanks in large part to noise cancelling technology. Like other high-performance EVs, the IM5 is almost unbeatable off the line, making short work of all comers. On the rise and fall of country roads, however, it feels disconnected and unpredictable at times, lacking the connection between car and driver. Cornering as such is not the problem, it’s setting up the car for the corners that is the challenge. Braking is a bit of a lottery, not so much in effect but more in application – sometimes they bite hard, sometimes they don’t. It’s problematic. Sure, the IM5 goes fast, not so much around corners but in a straight line – but at the end of the day is that enough?

Summing up The IM5 is a lot of cars, it’s just not the car for us. We’d also consider the Platinum variant, which is also pretty quick and has the advantage of greater range at 655km. Iron out the niggles, make the info system more intuitive, get rid of the constant driver warnings and MG could be on to a good thing. By the way, we’re still waiting to hear why the doors on the Cyberster won’t open when the car is parked on a slope.

SPORT

Around the cricket grounds Results, run makers and wicket takers for Bellarine Peninsula Cricket Association matches played on Saturday 24 October. BELLARINE PENINSULA CRICKET ASSOCIATION A1 Grade Anglesea 7/150 (L. Taylor 45, S. Umbers 34, R. Sauni 3/31) def Winchelsea 9/149 (A. Korth 64, D. Taylor 3/23, K. Eskrigge 2/7) Jan Juc 3/227 (P. Buszard 104no, B. Smith 53, T. Kearney 31) def Armstrong Creek 6/226 (C. Mulgrew 55, J. Maclean 43no, B. Norgrove 36, J. Powers 3/46) Barrabool 8/171 (T. Scott 64, L. Clift 31, F. Mileto 5/17) def Queenscliff 8/169 (H. Illingworth 49, L. Philp 42, K. Leathem 30, L. Clift 2/32) Drysdale drew with Barwon Heads, no play possible. A2 Grade Ocean Grove 6/247 (P. McKenna 124, S. Fankhauser 63, C. Snookes 39, Jude De Jong 2/37) def Collendina 9/223 (S. Beasley 77, R. Brown 40, C. Walter 32, H. Wingrave 32, P. McKenna 3/42, T. Kent 3/44) Portarlington 3/168 (P. McGrath 62no, J. Baldi 56) def St Leonards 164 (T. Griffin 38, J. Barwick 4/35) Inverleigh 9/122 (W. Collins 46, J. Scanlon 5/18) def Newcomb 121 (S. Chahal 37, D. Midolo 3/21) B1 Grade Armstrong Creek 8/186 (S. Trenorden 36, C. Dingle 34, T. De Silva 31, A. Kent 2/20) def Jan Juc 3/164 (J. Penton 64, J. Downey 50, M. Zahra 30) Ocean Grove 7/172 (A. Arnold 39, N. Cunningham 38, B. LeMaistre 25no) def Barrabool 151 (C. Scott 46, H. Symes 46, R. Rutley 5/25)

Inverleigh 7/181 (P. Hageman 53no, E. Flett 51, B. Dixon 3/28) def Anglesea 7/145 (D. Cooper 52, M. McGuane 30, L. Hazelwood 2/14) Barwon Heads 5/219 (H. Mithen 75, B. Fleet 51, J. Borg 51, K. Fleming 2/32) def Portarlington 126 (S. Chisholm 55, F. Darcy 4/15, J. Borg 3/20) B2 Grade Queenscliff 4/114 (P. Mileto 45no, T. Hanafin 31no, S. McGlynn 3/28) def Collendina 113 (S. McGlynn 25, J. Aldrich 3/8) Drysdale 1/150 (J. Richards 75, H. Damiani 68no) def St Leonards 8/148 (J. Stewart 60, J. Fletcher 2/17) Winchelsea 195 (T. Stephenson 77, B. Luppino 48, N. Lovett 3/24) def Newcomb 139 (R. Krishna 31no, G. Schreurs 3/16) Wallington 223 (M. Occhipinti 75, T. Emery 57, J. Crossley 35, A. Latif 5/26) def Armstrong Creek 9/164 (A. Israel 76, J. Devine 6/14) C Grade Drysdale 2/157 (G. Humphrey 67no, R. Malcolm 58) def Wallington 6/97 (K. Thomson 31no, X. Schorback 3/22) Newcomb 7/162 (S. Dunne 48, J. Smith 3/24) def Anglesea 4/161 (A. Braaksma 68, L. Wedding 57no) Armstrong Creek 4/236 (T. Piera 89, T. Hester 61, S. Baumann 43no) def Ocean Grove 192 (G. Scarpa 61, T. Wiseman 33, W. Finn 30, T. Piera 3/36) Portarlington 2/104 (D. Deluca 30, J. Henry 30no) def Barwon Heads 102 (M. Bell 33, D. Buller 31, D. Deluca 4/17, N. Huybens 3/15)

Campbell Snookes hits out during his quick 39 from 23 balls for Ocean Grove against Collendina. (Ivan Kemp)

Collendina 8/174 (H. Bush 54, R. Mehra 2/10) def Wallington 9/164 (D. Morphet 34, C. Thompson 6/42) Barrabool 1/74 (M. Potton 38no) def Queenscliff 9/72 (R. Salvado 4/12) D Grade Barwon Heads 5/291 (M. Johnson 104ret, B. McCredden 52ret, N. Storer 52ret) def Portarlington 64 (A. Naseer 3/15) Collendina 1/150 (D. Leigh 76no, G. McIntosh 48no) def Barrabool 8/143 (R. Kelley 43, D. De Zoete 3/18) Queenscliff 8/156 (H. Bullock 40no,

J. Falconer 3/27, L. Briody 3/29) def Jan Juc 8/135 (S. Burriss 36, P. Rhodes 2/24) Ocean Grove 4/233 (D. Cameron 100ret, S. LeBel 77no) def Armstrong Creek 9/202 (D. Fazakerley 58, B. Smith 35, A. Meher 33, A. Noye 2/9) Anglesea 1/98 (J. Parry 42no) def Winchelsea 91 (L. Lenehan 51, C. Hogan 3/23) Newcomb 5/187 (J. Moss 80no, D. Willis 2/19) def Drysdale 95 (D. Willis 33, D. Gambhir 33, M. Vanderpol 4/14) Jan Juc def St Leonards by forfeit

27 def David Priddle, M. Coulter, S. McDonald, J. Fitzgerald 19; D. Banks, C. Papastergiou, P. French, A. Sampson 28 def S. McLachlan, C. Polwarth, R. Priddle, B. Prior 14; D. Kitchin, K. Hazelhurst, J. Howarth, P. Williams 16 def by A. Lee, S. Macklin, D. Kiss, S. Shuttleworth 19; B. Ott, D. Tudor, R. Milesi, D. Cairns 16 def by Dan Priddle, J. Kiss, T. Hickey, D. Klemke 21.

DIVISION 1 Highton 99 (18) def Leopold 66 (0) M. Cavanagh, D. Cameron, M. Couzens, D. McGregor 30 def M. Willis, P. Staines, P. Shuttleworth, S. Ashby 15; R. Wilkinson, R. Burrage, T. Driscoll, P. Jones 18 def L. Cameron, B. Shaw, S. Seear, D. Seear 17; T. Moore, J. Fry, H. Gilmore, D. Monk 23 def N. Shortis, M. Gregg, C. Sproal, T. Salisbury 15; O. Landry, N. Oakes, A. Kiss, P. Monk 28 def C. Heard, R. Nichol, D. Rudge, A. Hardisty 19. Belmont(1) 82 (14) def Bell Post Hill 70 (4) J. Harris, J. Clark, C. Bassett, G. Smith 27 def A. Pratt, N. Hill, G. Logue, T. Rufus 12; S. Davies, B. Clark, S. Wilkinson, M. Koulkoudinas 15 def by D. Gercke, P. Standaert, F. Clayson, A. Firth 18; D. Ross, G. Davies, P. Newton, D. McManus 18 def by D. Gillett, G. McInerney, R. McInerney, J. Ray 19; R. Agg, R. Kent, M. Davies, H. Dahler 22 def B. Bottrell, A. Lewis, G. Pearson, S. McDonald 21. Portarlington 99 (16) def St Leonards 68 (2) B. Lockyer, N. Cherry, D. Roberts, P. Fisk 26 def M. Kennedy, B. Auld, D. Barnett, A. Doyle 19; G. Reed, T. McNamara, L. Reed, W. Takarua 22 def T. Long, S. Lund, A. Marston, G. Lund 17; T. Demaria, L. Schmidt, J. Taylor, T. Freeman 16 def by A. Hills, J. Doyle, J. Coe, B. Culph 23; D. Dunlop, M. Jones, R. Malcomson, J. McNamara 35 def D. McDonald, R. Michael, F. Aston, P. Garlick 9. City of Geelong 115 (18) def Belmont(2) 58 D. Vogele, K. Gooley, R. Gray, D. Wombell 33 def J. Reed, M. Claassen, C. Ryan, S. Rundell 16; S. Khruapanich, R. Sneaker, R. Wright-Janocha, S. Somerton 21 def D. Abrahmsen, N. Gemmill, A. Murrell, J. Smith 11; N. Craven, L. Simpson, S. Simkus, A. Hyatt 26 def J. Musco, H. Volkers, K. Blain, B. Parsons 17; J. Shell, N. Robinson, D. Radoslav, M. Nitchie 35 def A. Gemmill, S. Kelly, K. Sullivan, P. Mellross 14.

Around the rinks Results from Geelong Bowls Region’s top two divisions from round 2 on Saturday 24 October. PREMIER DIVISION Players named in order of skip, lead, second, third. Ocean Grove(2) 82 (16) def Eastern Park 64 (2) Alan Drury, P. Entwhistle, L. Price, C. Verrier 24 def S. Young, M. Sherwell, K. Mitchell, K. Petzierides 8; R. Brehaut, J. Le Cerf, D. Meeny, Jason Bertrand 12 def by S. Field, B. Wilson, D. Jackman, M. Coleman 25; S. Avery, L. Humphries, Jodie Bertrand, M. West 23 def T. Balchan, S. Webb, G. Pavey, G. Connolly 15; O. Clark, D. Ryan, D. Henery, B. Spaven 23 def A. Munro, R. Sherwell, T. Scorpo, P. Scorpo 16. Drysdale 113 (16) def Lara 59 (2) M. Godbolt, J. Fry, P. Wells, A. James 23 def S. Hedger, H. Tump, S. Tump, B. Emond 19; A. Rees, M. Hommelhoff, M. Johnson, B. Howie 31 def D. Cotter, J. Macgavin, M. Fedyk, A. Gilmore 10; B. Toner, M. Speed, J. Toner, D. Washington 36 def D. Grellet, J. Tyley, T. Farrar, S. Grellet 6; J. Monahan, C. Cox, M. Rees, M. Sloper 23 def by M. Kelly, G. Hinch, P. Cook, S. Emond 24. Queenscliff 90 (18) def Ocean Grove(1) 60 (0) S. Monahan, W. Visser, J. Mahoney, S. Sullivan 23 def J. Rudd, M. O’Reilly, A. Forster, Z. Abro 17; R. Butler, R. Cameron,

Rodney Swan plays his last bowl for this end for Clifton Springs in Division 3. (Ivan Kemp)

J. Issell, N. Bell 23 def T. Cromie, C. Rippon, S. Renshaw, T. Joel 16; M. Hocking, C. Saunders, B. Gladman, J. Reilly 22 def M. Flapper, H. Clark, W. Frith, H. O’Reilly 11; B. Russell, A. Green, W. Macleod, N. Dixon 22 def B. Pavey, R. Hunt, C. Burrell, K. Bourke 16. Torquay 87 (14) def Highton 73 (4) Z. Lugg, J. Di Fiore, K. Weiner, P. Anderson

Friday, 30 October, 2026 OCEAN GROVE VOICE 19

SPORT

Xu propels the Venom By AAP Chinese import Han Xu received a warm welcome in her first game for Geelong and put on a show against the Melbourne Southside Flyers after just two practice sessions. The Venom comfortably won 74-69 in front of their largest ever crowd and soldout Microkeeper Arena on Saturday afternoon. But angst riddled the Geelong team on the eve of the game with Bec Cole ruled out with a lower leg issue. Adding insult to injury, Maddy Rocci who had 33 points in the opening round was pulled just hours before tip-off with a foot problem. It was the debut of Chinese import Han Xu who supplemented the fractured list at the first jump ball. The New York Liberty star is the second-tallest player in WNBA history and won

Defensive Player of the Season last campaign with the Perth Lynx. The 211cm centre towered over the 196cm Sakima Walker in the opening jump ball and made the tip-off look as easy as the opening basket she made 15 seconds later. Melbourne’s Hannah Hank set the tone when she made a driving layup at Xu, and forced the global star to concede her third foul halfway into the second quarter, forcing the Chinese superstar to the bench until the second half. “[Hank] just competes every possession,” coach Sam Mackinnon said. “We put her on Han just to sort of be physical, and all game, she did a really good job of that, of limiting her impact around the basket. “But it’s hard to do for a full 40 minutes.” Xu was the focal point and it opened up space for Lilly Rotunno to dominate, Mackinnon added.

Han Xu marked her Geelong Venom debut with 16 points and 8 rebounds in a 74-69 win over the Southside Melbourne Flyers in front of a record sold-out crowd at Microkeeper Arena. (Running Point Media)

“She controlled the tempo, got after our guards and we didn’t do a quick enough job of freeing up our guards to get into our stuff,” he said. Rotunno came in for Cole and also impressed Geelong coach Cheryl Chambers. “How good for Lily to come out and show she belongs in this league,” Chambers said. “Everyone had to step up. It was huge.” The Venom bit down late in the second term with a 13-0 run and the Flyers never made up the deficit. Xu finished with 16 points and eight rebounds. “I’d only practised two times with this team with a little bit of practice,” Xu said. “But I never would have thought we would have played like that.”

Hamlyn Park runner-up at National League Finals By Lou Arzanovski The first edition of the National League Finals was held on the Gold Coast, bringing together 31 premiership winning teams from across the nation for three days of competition. Having tasted success at state level in April, Hamlyn Park H.E.AT. journeyed to the Sunshine State to participate in Open Section 2. H.E.A.T. opened its campaign against the highly fancied and fellow Victorian team Bulleen. Strong performances from the team’s top doubles pairing of Cameron Harris and Angelo Traficante, recording two set wins, 8-3 and 8-2, ensured an upset win decided on games, sets shared. This set the trend for the rest of the tournament with H.E.A.T recording four straight wins with three of those being tightly contested encounters decided on

games. Highlights included a comeback win by Fletcher Allen and Lou Arzanovski against South Australia’s Memorial Drive. Starting slowly and being 1-4 down, the duo was able to regroup and win seven consecutive games to take the set 8-4. In the same tie, Todd Morgan, alongside partner Harris, faced defeat at 5-6 down, but they were able to deliver a crucial hold on serve and swing the set and tie in Hamlyn Park’s favour. The 8-6 set win for Morgan and Harris secured the tie for H.E.A.T. In a fitting end to a well organised event run by Tennis Australia, which is sure to become a marquee event on the tennis calendar, the two undefeated teams H.E.A.T. and Greenacres Dragons from South Australia met in the final round to decide the section winner. Greenacres triumphed with Hamlyn Park H.E.A.T. declared runner-up.

Hamlyn PARK H.E.A.T: Lou Arzanovski, Fletcher Allen, Angelo Traficante, Joseph Traficante, Cameron Harris, Todd Morgan. (supplied)

National League Finals tournament director Sean Spralja reflected on the success of the event. “The National League Finals provides a pathway for all players participating in team tennis – no matter their playing standard or location,” he said. “The 2026 edition was incredibly well received, and we look forward to making the event bigger and better in 2027.”

Tully Wylie claims victory in thrilling qualifying series round Surf Coast local Tully Wylie claimed victory at the latest state round of surfing over the weekend. The Men’s Division came down to a high-scoring, nailbiting finish with WSL Qualifying Series (QS) surfer Wylie demonstrating exceptional form to take top honours with a total score of 14.34. Wylie narrowly held off a fierce challenge from runner-up Willis Droomer (14.23) to win by a mere 0.11-point margin. Kai Nudd took third place with a strong 14.00 total, while Harry De Roth placed fourth with 7.17. “Stoked to get the win after a super close final,” Wylie said. “It was a great battle out there. Everyone was putting up solid scores, so to find that wave right at the end to get the score was huge. “Saturday was epic with pumping waves at Bells Bowl, and while Sunday turned into a real grind with the rain and wind, it made the win even more rewarding.

Men’s Open Winner Tully Wylie. (Ang Zorica/ Surfing Victoria)

“A massive shoutout to the Surfing Victoria team for putting on a great event. I’m super stoked to secure the win and grab a spot in the trials.” In the Women’s Division, Peninsula Boardriders’ Rose Holland pulled off the ultimate upset performance. Facing a stacked lineup that included

20 OCEAN GROVE VOICE Friday, 30 October, 2026

World Surf League (WSL) Challenger Series competitors Ellie Harrison (Barwon Heads) and India Robinson (Jan Juc), Holland put together a dominant strategy to secure first place with an 11.30 total score, finishing 1.46 points clear of her nearest rival. Harrison finished in second place with 9.84, followed by Arabella Wilson (8.63) and Robinson (8.07). The weekend showcased outstanding performances across changing conditions, starting at Bells Beach/Djarrak in clean 3-feet waves on Saturday before a weather system change prompted a venue move to Jan Juc for Sunday’s finals. Men’s Division 1. Tully Wylie – 14.34 (Torquay) 2. Willis Droomer – 14.23 (Jan Juc) 3. Kai Nudd – 14.00 (Torquay) 4. Harry De Roth – 7.17 (Phillip Island) Women’s Division 1. Rose Holland (Peninsula) – 11.30 2. Ellie Harrison (Barwon Heads) – 9.84 3. Arabella Wilson – 8.63 (Jan Juc) 4. India Robinson – 8.07 (Jan Juc)

Ocean Grove 11-year-old surfer Finn Murphy at the Rip Curl GromSearch finals. (pictures supplied)

Surf experience thrills Grove youngster Finn Murphy wants to be a professional surfer and if his performance at the Rip Curl Grom Search finals is any indication of things to come, he may just get there. The 11-year-old Ocean Grover was granted a last-minute wildcard into the Under 12s event and ended as the finished placed Victorian and seventh overall. Jan Juc surfers Stevie O’Day won the girls Under 14s division, Teddy Robinson came in third for the boys Under 14s and Olive Robinson also finished third in the Under 12 girls. The national Australian final was held at Urbnsurf Melbourne, on its pro-turns setting, which is rarely available to the public and is a heavier wave that demands high performance surfing. Finn surfed well on the day, however a fall on the last turn of his highest scoring wave left the door open for the current Australian No 6 surfer Tasman Mellis to edge him out for the final place in the six-person final by 0.34 on his final ride. Finn was overjoyed with the invitation to the coveted event and for the opportunity to rub shoulders with Australia’s best junior talent. He said he was stoked with the result and had a heap of fun and learned lots. Finn said he “loved the wave pool competition format” and was “stoked with the result”. See Finn’s parent managed Instagram account at @oceanfinn_

Finn Murphy in action at Urbnsurf, Melbourne.

SPORT

Steve Bryant follows through on his bowl.

Michael Jenner plays the forehand.

Denis Brincat plays a beauty with a toucher and holds on which was the winning margin for the end.

Adele Ryan leads off for Ocean Grove. 583512

Grovers get up in Div 3 Ocean Grove defeated Clifton Springs at home in Division 3 bowls on Saturday

24 October and Voice photographer Ivan Kemp took these pictures.

Marilyn Fisk watches her bowl closely.

Nick Baskharon opens the end for Clifton Springs.

Ian Donald leads on the forehand. Lorraine Kirk attempts to win back the head.

David Leggett works on his line.

Ray Bensch leads off for Clifton Springs.

John Gibcus plays the backhand for position.

Shane Thorley delivers his bowl.

Friday, 30 October, 2026 OCEAN GROVE VOICE 21

SPORT

Campbell Snookes drives Jude De Jong for a single.

Shaun Fankhauser drives during his innings of 63 for Ocean Grove.

Paddy McKenna is bowled by George Every for a magnificent 124 off 127 deliveries.

Ryan Simmonds is run out. 582758

Grubbers win local derby Ocean Grove defeated Collendina in a high-scoring BPCA A2 Grade match at Collendina Recreation Reserve on

Saturday 24 October and Voice photographer Ivan Kemp caught some of the action.

Campbell Snookes drives down the ground for four. Sam Beasley takes a catch just inside the midwicket boundary to dismiss Campbell Snookes for 39.

Jacob Taylor plays this ball into the ground. Jude De Jong thinks about his next delivery as he walks back to his bowling mark.

Shaun Fankhauser is run out by George Every for 63 off 76 deliveries.

Ryan Simmonds plays this delivery through the onside.

22 OCEAN GROVE VOICE Friday, 30 October, 2026

George Every runs in to take the catch to dismiss Fletcher Long.

George Every in action for Collendina.

SPORT

Peter Buszard made a superb unbeaten century to help Jan Juc to a win. (file picture/Ivan Kemp)

Bulls and Sharks remain unbeaten in BPCA A1 Grade comp Shaun Fankhauser drives during his innings of 63 for Ocean Grove. (pictures Ivan Kemp) 582758

McKenna blasts 124 By Justin Flynn When new Ocean Grove coach Paddy McKenna said he wanted to value his wicket more during his second stint in the Bellarine Peninsula Cricket Association, he meant it. Scores of 37 and 54 in the opening two rounds set the tone and McKenna then peeled off a 127-ball 124 against Collendina on Saturday 24 October to show why he was one of the Geelong Cricket Association’s most damaging players for Newtown & Chilwell. McKenna’s first stint at Ocean Grove didn’t yield the runs he was expecting, but after vowing to respect his wicket more this time around, the results are more than promising. “It helps having plenty of depth in the batting, knowing that if you do get out then there’s someone else that can step in and play their role,” he said. “It was weird. I got to about 105 and started hitting them awful. “I think all innings you have your ebbs and flows of moments and having periods of 15 to 20 runs where you’re struggling against a bowler or whatever. I probably just got weary and then had a bit of a period where I wasn’t hitting them particularly well or picking them up as well as I had previously. For what reason I’m not particularly sure. “I was trying to grind through, but at the same time there were only nine overs to go and we had nine wickets in hand. If it was in a two-day game you might sort of go into your shell for six or eight overs and try and work your way through that whereas in oneday cricket I thought I’d just keep going and hopefully hit my way out of it.” The Grubbers made 6/247 batting first with McKenna and Shaun Fankhauser (63 from 76 deliveries) adding 186 for the second wicket and Campbell Snookes putting on the finishing touches with 39 from 23. McKenna said opening the batting and enjoying his cricket was contributing to his early season form. “I’m probably enjoying my cricket more and just more confident in my game,” he

Campbell Snookes deflects this delivery to the leg side on his way to a rapid 39 from 23 balls.

said. “I think last time I played I was coming in at about three or four or something like that. Opening the batting is the easiest spot to bat if you ask me. It can be the worst sometimes. You can get a good one early, but it probably helps when you’re playing in a team that’s got a lot of batting depth as well.” Needing more than six runs an over, Collendina started cautiously, but had wickets in hand and was 1/80 at drinks after 20 overs. Corey Walter (39) and Richard Brown (40) fell either side of the break and danger-man Ben Ricardo was dismissed, bringing Sam Beasley to the crease with Harrisyn Wingrave. With 15 overs to go the required run rate was edging close to 10 an over and while Beasley (77 from 45 balls) and Wingrave (32 from 39) tried to salvage the innings, it was a bridge too far. The Cobras finished their 40 overs at 9/223. Three wickets each to McKenna and Tom Kent (3/44 from eight overs) gave the Grubbers their third win from as many starts. “We bowled particularly well for the first 15 (overs, and) the game was over then really,” McKenna said.

“Sam Beasley batted very well at the end but he was in a position where he just had to swing. The ball got a bit wet for us as well. “It didn’t rain much in our batting innings, but in their innings it rained at about the 18-over mark and that changed the momentum a little bit because it got a bit slippery and much harder for boys to control their lengths. “We knew from there it was just a matter of getting through the overs to complete the game.” McKenna praised the bowling of spinner Tom Kent and with fellow leggie Alex Mann to return to the team, the Grubbers have two quality slow bowlers to turn to. “Tommy Kent, to be honest, has been probably the pick of our bowlers the first three weeks,” McKenna said. “He’s done a fantastic job for a leg spinner. He’s got brilliant control. “And Al (Mann) is probably a bit different to TK in terms of he spins it more and he’s much more likely to grab a wicket. “He’s still got very good control, but TK’s control is definitely his number one asset. They can bowl well in tandem because even though they are both leggies, they’re very different in terms of their skill sets.”

Barrabool and Jan Juc are the only remaining unbeaten teams in BPCA A1 Grade after three rounds. Barrabool defeated Queenscliff in a close match on Saturday 24 October but not before Fran Mileto nearly stole the points for the Coutas. Queenscliff made 8/169 batting first with Hayden Illingworth (49) and Lochie Philp (42) getting the side off to a bright start with a 93-run opening stand. Queenscliff then lost four wickets for 10 runs before Kane Leathem made 30 from 32 balls. Needing 4.25 runs per over to win, Barrabool captain Tom Scott led the way with 64, but Mileto entered the attack and began to get the Coutas back into the contest. Mileto’s medium pacers turned the game around with Barrabool going from 3/146 to 8/156, still 14 runs shy of victory. Mileto picked up 5/17, but the Bulls got over the line with two wickets and three deliveries in hand. Jan Juc defeated Armstrong Creek on the back of a superb unbeaten century from Peter Buszard. Armstrong Creek batted first and made a highly competitive 6/226 with Clay Mulgrew (55), Jack Maclean (43 not out) and Ben Norgrove (36) among the runs. The Sharks then chased the target down in the 38th over and lost just three wickets in the process. Buszard remained unbeaten on 105, hitting 12 boundaries and a six while Ben Smith (53) and Tom Kearney (38) played important knocks. Anglesea got the better of Winchelsea in a close contest. Winch made 9/149 thanks largely to Adam Korth’s 64 while Dylan Taylor took three wickets with his left-arm seam for Anglesea. The Seas started disastrously losing star opener Tyron Norman on the first ball of the innings, but captain Simon Umbers (34) steadied and Luke Taylor (45) played well in the middle order. At 7/142, the game was evenly placed, but Tom Eskrigge was defiant and was unbeaten on 24 when Anglesea got the winning runs with three wickets and an over to spare. Drysdale and Barwon Heads were denied the chance to pick up win number one for the season, with play abandoned without a ball bowled.

Friday, 30 October, 2026 OCEAN GROVE VOICE 23

SECTION

OCEANGROVEVOICE.COM.AU

Levy Relief Offer WE’LL COVER YOUR MONTHLY CHARGES

Enjoy up to five years of support as you settle into life at Armstrong Green For a limited time, Bolton Clarke will cover your service and maintenance charges on eligible villas — helping you feel at home sooner, with less to think about each month.

Savings from $35,736* over five years

Book your private tour today 1800 777 898 | armstronggreen.com.au

*Offer available on selected new villas for contracts completed by 18 December 2026. Terms, conditions and eligibility criteria apply. Charges revert after applicable period. Bolton Clarke is the brand name for a group of companies being RSL Care RDNS Limited ACN 010 488 454, Royal District Nursing Service Limited ACN 052 188 717 and RDNS HomeCare Limited ACN 152 438 152.

24 OCEAN GROVE VOICE Friday, 30 October, 2026

12906628-RV43-26

722–742 Barwon Heads Rd, Armstrong Creek